BUV Empowering Young Minds Through Critical Thinking and Debate in Truong Teen 2026
For the second consecutive year, British University Vietnam (BUV) has partnered with Trường Teen, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing critical thinking, independent perspectives and confident communication among young people. At the Grand Finale of Trường Teen 2026, BUV awarded six university scholarships to outstanding contestants, recognising their achievements and supporting their continued academic development.
Our website uses cookies to enhance your user experience and improve the effectiveness of our marketing activities. By clicking “Accept” or closing this window to continue browsing, you consent to our use of all cookies. If you do not agree to all cookies, please select “Manage cookies”. Learn more about our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy for full details.
Empowering Young People to Think Independently and Speak with Confidence
Returning for its ninth season, Trường Teen 2026 continued to provide a platform for high school students to challenge ideas, construct evidence-based arguments and engage with perspectives different from their own.
At the Grand Finale, Le Hong Phong High School for the Gifted (Ho Chi Minh City) faced True North International School (Hanoi) in a debate on whether English should become a compulsory subject in Vietnam's high school graduation examination.
The motion, directly relevant to students' educational experiences, opened a broader discussion on foreign-language proficiency, equal access to education and preparation for future opportunities.
Throughout the competition, both teams demonstrated their ability to develop structured arguments, use supporting evidence and respond thoughtfully to opposing viewpoints. Their performances illustrated how debate encourages young people to look beyond immediate opinions and develop a more informed understanding of complex issues.
Ultimately, Le Hong Phong High School for the Gifted claimed the championship title for their compelling and coordinated performance.
BUV Recognises Outstanding Young Talent with Six University Scholarships
As part of its continued partnership with Trường Teen, BUV awarded six university scholarships to the finalists, recognising their academic potential, determination and achievements throughout the competition.
The scholarships included three awards covering 75% of tuition fees for the championship team and three awards covering 50% of tuition fees for the runner-up team.
Beyond recognising competition performance, the scholarships reflect BUV's commitment to expanding access to international higher education and supporting students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, communication skills and the confidence to challenge conventional thinking.
Professor Rick Bennett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President of BUV, also shared his perspectives on the importance of critical thinking in education and young people's development.
He emphasised that effective debate requires more than persuasive communication. It also involves the discipline to examine evidence, the openness to consider different viewpoints and the intellectual confidence to reassess one's own position when presented with convincing arguments.
BUV's involvement also extended to the competition's academic and professional evaluation. Dr Pham Hai Chung, Dean of the School of Communications and Creative Industries (SoCCI) at BUV, served on the judging panel, bringing an academic perspective to the assessment of contestants' arguments, evidence and debating techniques.
Her participation helped reinforce the principles of effective debate: developing well-supported arguments, approaching issues with logical reasoning and engaging constructively with opposing perspectives.
These capabilities are becoming increasingly important as Vietnam navigates economic, technological and social transformation. Education must go beyond the acquisition of knowledge to help young people think independently, communicate effectively and apply their learning in unfamiliar situations.
Preparing Young People for a Changing World
Through its continued support for Trường Teen, BUV seeks to create meaningful opportunities for young people to develop the academic and personal capabilities needed for their future education and careers.
From debating real-world issues to engaging with different perspectives, the competition gives students opportunities to practise the skills that underpin effective communication, collaboration and informed decision-making.
This approach reflects BUV's broader educational philosophy, which combines rigorous academic learning with the development of independent thinking, interpersonal capabilities and practical experience. By encouraging students to question assumptions, articulate their ideas and engage respectfully with others, the University aims to prepare graduates who can adapt and contribute confidently in a changing world.
While Trường Teen 2026 concluded with the recognition of its outstanding finalists, the skills and experiences gained throughout the competition extend well beyond the debate stage.
For BUV, supporting initiatives such as Trường Teen is an investment in the next generation: empowering young people not simply to express their opinions, but to think critically, make informed decisions and contribute meaningfully to Vietnam's future.
Ultimately, Le Hong Phong High School for the Gifted claimed the championship title for their compelling and coordinated performance.
