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| Members of the Vietnam Engineering Unit joined in the Mid-Autumn festival celebrations with the students of Abyei Church School. (Photo: Vietnam Engineering Unit) |
This activity aimed to foster solidarity and strengthen the bond between the Vietnamese peacekeeping forces at the UNISFA mission and the local community and authorities. It also supported children in Abyei, bringing joy, excitement and happiness to the local children.
During the program, the children listened to representatives of the Vietnam Engineering Unit explain the significance of the Mid-Autumn Festival in Eastern culture, particularly in Vietnam. They were also introduced to the story of the festival through an animated video clip in English, enjoyed dance and singing performances by the unit members and children from the church at Highway base, and participated in traditional games.
On this occasion, the Vietnam Engineering Unit presented gifts to 10 outstanding students who were recently accepted into universities in the Abyei area, as well as gifts to five classes at the Abyei Church (including five bookshelves, toys and school supplies).
Additionally, over 200 recycled toys were given to the children, made by the unit’s Youth Union and Women’s Association using recycled plastic bottles and scrap paper during their breaks. The children also joined in the traditional Mid-Autumn Festival feast.
Speaking at the event, Major Nguyen Mau Vu, Political Officer of the Vietnam Peacekeeping Engineering Unit, emphasized: “We, the Vietnamese blue-helmet soldiers, have long become a part of the Abyei community and always strive to help this land in every way we can. The Mid-Autumn Festival is not only a traditional celebration but also holds deep cultural significance in Vietnam. We hope this occasion allows the children to feel the care, affection, and closeness of the community around them.”
At the program, Ms. Catherine, Principal of the Abyei Church School, said that the children were very happy and delighted to attend the event. “Even though you come from a distant country with a different culture, you have made the children feel love without borders. Thank you to the members of the Vietnam Engineering Unit! Thank you, Vietnam,” she added./.