Undergraduate From August 18 to 23, 2026, the College of Engineering - Can Tho University (CTU) hosted the 2026 International Project-Based Learning (IPBL) Program, bringing together professors and students from three international higher education institutions: Osaka Institute of Technology (Japan), National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (Taiwan), and Chiang Mai University (Thailand).
Centered around the theme “Wind Turbine Design and Experimentation”, the program provided students with a unique learning environment where knowledge was closely connected with practical applications. Students from different countries worked together, shared ideas, and explored solutions to a common challenge, gaining firsthand experience in project-based learning within a multicultural and multinational environment.
The opening ceremony was held on August 18 at the College of Engineering - CTU
Throughout the program, students from the four participating higher education institutions worked in international teams on projects involving the design, fabrication, and experimentation of wind turbines, under the guidance of professors and faculty members from the participating institutions. Beginning with initial briefings, idea exchanges, and project planning, the teams progressively applied their technical knowledge, creative thinking, and collaborative skills to design turbine blades and structural components, 3D-print components, then finalize and assemble their models. The project-based learning process continued through progress presentations, wind tunnel testing, vibration testing, and performance evaluation before the teams advanced to the final competition.
Six teams at the opening ceremony of the 2026 International Project-Based Learning Program
Beyond producing a final project, the project-based learning process also enabled students to develop essential competencies for their academic and professional journeys. Through teamwork, idea exchange, project presentations, and the resolution of practical challenges, students had opportunities to strengthen their communication, presentation, critical thinking, problem-solving, and task management skills. In particular, learning and communicating in English throughout the program helped students enhance their ability to use the language in academic and multicultural working environments.
Representatives of the participating institutions shared their expectations for meaningful learning, exchange, and collaboration, contributing to stronger academic connections and expanded opportunities for international cooperation among the universities
The program brought together professors, faculty members, and students from four higher education institutions, each with distinctive strengths and educational contexts. This diversity of cultures, expertise, and experiences created an international learning environment throughout the project. Each participant brought different perspectives, approaches, and experiences to the table. As a result, the collaborative process not only produced tangible project outcomes but also fostered academic connections and cultural exchange extending beyond the classroom.
Professors from the three international partner institutions and CTU faculty members
The 2026 International Project-Based Learning Program further reaffirms Can Tho University’s commitment to advancing the internationalization of higher education and making global experiential learning an integral part of the educational process. Starting with a wind energy challenge, students had the opportunity to discover how knowledge can be connected across borders, how diversity can become a source of innovation, and how a shared project can bring young people from different countries closer together. By creating collaborative environments where students learn and grow together, CTU seeks to equip them not only with professional knowledge but also with adaptability, a global mindset, and the confidence to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Students confidently participated in learning and exchange activities and took on the challenge of designing and testing wind turbines
(Website Editorial Board)
