On February 23, 2026 (the 7th day of the first lunar month), in the joyful and warm atmosphere of the early days of spring, the University of the Pacific Ocean (UPO) organized the program “First Meeting of the Year – Welcome 2026.” The event provided an opportunity for the entire university community to kick off the new year together in a spirit of connection, sharing, and determination to make new breakthroughs in the journey ahead.
The program was attended by People’s Teacher, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ho Thanh Phong – President of the University, members of the Board of Management, leaders of faculties, departments and centers, along with all lecturers and staff. The presence of the entire UPO community created a New Year gathering that was both formal and friendly, reflecting a shared commitment toward the university’s development goals for 2026.
The event space was designed like a mini spring festival, where traditional cultural elements blended with the youthful and modern spirit of UPO. During the Spring Exploration session, participants enjoyed traditional folk games, tried their luck at the “bau cua tom ca” game booth, and enjoyed cakes and light refreshments for the new year.
Speaking at the gathering, People’s Teacher, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ho Thanh Phong – President of the University of the Pacific Ocean shared heartfelt and inspiring reflections about the university’s journey ahead. He humorously compared that each person should have their own “magic cloud”—taking initiative in telling the story of UPO’s brand and creating sincere, professional experiences in student recruitment.
He emphasized that every new year is an opportunity to renew ourselves and renew the organization. What matters is not waiting for perfect conditions, but being ready to start, ready to change, and ready to act together. The development goals for 2026 were set with strong determination, requiring the collective effort of the entire university community.
One of the most memorable moments of the program was the Spring Fortune Picking activity. Representatives from the Board of Management and various units were invited to the stage to pick lucky envelopes from the Fortune Tree, symbolizing hopes for a prosperous and successful year. Lucky gifts—including prizes equivalent to one “phan” of gold—brought excitement and pleasant surprises to participants.
The program continued with a warm New Year banquet, where members of the university gathered in a friendly atmosphere to raise a toast for health, peace, and achievements in the coming year. Conversations and sincere wishes shared during the event created a meaningful morning—not only a gathering but also a collective commitment to the journey ahead.
The “First Meeting of the Year – Welcome 2026” program was more than just an early spring reunion; it was a moment of connection and renewed motivation for the entire university community. From this gathering, the University of the Pacific Ocean officially launched its 2026 journey with unity, positive energy, and a strong determination to create remarkable progress in the time ahead.
