Exciting Experience of the Urban Railway Project in Ho Chi Minh City

 On the morning of October 8, 2024, the Department of Construction Engineering and Management (CEM) organized a significant project experience for almost 40 Construction Management (CM) students at Ton Duc Thang University. The trip included visits to Ben Thanh Station and Ba Son Station, which are two of the most prominent metro stations on Ho Chi Minh City's first urban railway line (Metro). This construction site visit provided students with valuable real-world project experience and an opportunity to understand better the practical implementation of modern construction projects and their management.
Upon arriving at Ben Thanh station, the CM students were immediately captivated by the unique architecture and the bustling atmosphere of the central Saigon area. This location serves as a convergence point for various cultures and commerce. Mr. Linh, a Ho Chi Minh City Urban Railway Management Board representative, provided insight into the history and significance of the Metro project in enhancing the city's public transportation system. He emphasized that the project alleviates traffic congestion and contributes to environmental protection by reducing emissions from private vehicles.
The CM students were given insights from a Ho Chi Minh City Urban Railway Management Board representative. The discussion covered modern construction technologies implemented at the station, sustainable building materials, and the vital role of managers in overseeing construction progress and ensuring project quality. Mr. Linh encouraged students to participate by asking questions and actively engaging in discussions. The exchange was dynamic, with many students interested in engineering and construction management topics.
Upon departing from Ben Thanh station, the CM students proceeded to Ba Son Station, a vital feature of the Metro Line 1 project built to international standards. CM students were given a comprehensive tour inside the station, including its platforms and passenger waiting areas. The station's management representative detailed the smart design of the station, covering the layout of spaces and the utilization of high-tech equipment to ensure passenger safety.
Throughout the Metro project experience, CM students had the opportunity to observe and learn about the design and construction process of the city's first key urban railway line. The Ho Chi Minh City Urban Railway Management Board representative shared essential elements of project management, including planning, resource allocation, and quality control throughout the project implementation. CM students were also encouraged to participate in practical activities and discussions on how to solve problems that arise during construction. This experience not only helped them solidify their theoretical knowledge but also allowed them to practice practical skills and critical thinking.
Following the tour's conclusion, students specializing in construction management participated in a lively discussion about their experiences. All the CM students conveyed a sense of enthusiasm and heightened motivation for their academic endeavours within the Construction Management program at Ton Duc Thang University.
"The knowledge and real-world experiences acquired from the trip will serve as valuable assets for CM students as they venture into the challenging yet opportunity-laden field of construction. The construction site visits not only bridged the gap between theory and practice but also ignited a passion for the profession in each student, helping them to cultivate ambitious dreams and aspirations for the future." emphasized Mrs Le Thi Thanh Tram, the homeroom lecturer of the K28 Construction Management course. 
Below are some images from the tour: