On Friday, August 8, 2025, the 2025 VUS TESOL Conference concluded with a remarkable scale: 24 breakout sessions attended by thousands of educators, experts, and scholars in Vietnam and over 40 countries worldwide.
Table of Contents
The VUS TESOL Conference: A leading academic forum in ELT
Through the TESOL Conference, VUS once again reaffirms its commitment to supporting English teaching professionals across the nation and the region. The event not only provides educators with the opportunity to stay updated on modern educational trends but also serves as a platform to reflect, evaluate, and refine their teaching practices. All efforts are dedicated to the shared goal: “Empowering Aspirations, Together!”
As a pioneer in English education in Vietnam, VUS consistently brings the latest teaching trends to its academic community. Dr. Vu Thi Tu Anh, Deputy Director, Continuing Education Department, Vietnam Ministry of Education and Training, solemnly shared that:
“An operation period of 20 years is highly enduring. VUS has shown remarkable responsibility through various educational development stages. Events like this also provide an environment for teachers and administrators to gain experience in innovative teaching and management practices, showcasing VUS' leading role in foreign language education during the country’s integration and development stage.”
Advancing a legacy of innovation continued at the 2025 VUS TESOL Conference
Carrying the theme “Sparking Joy in the ELT Classroom: Enhancing Well-being and Inclusiveness,” the 2025 VUS TESOL conference reminded us that English teaching is not just about language skills. It is about bringing joy into the classroom, a joy that fuels motivation, builds confidence, and awakens curiosity in every learner.
At the same time, inclusiveness is placed at the heart of education – not only meaning that every student, regardless of background, circumstances, abilities, or needs, has the opportunity to participate in learning, but also affirming that diversity itself is a source of strength in the classroom. Inclusiveness here emphasizes creating an environment where every learner feels recognized, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential.
It is also a reminder of the vital role teachers play in shaping learning spaces that are both academically effective and emotionally fulfilling, where students can confidently grow and shine.
The influence of the 2025 VUS TESOL Conference extended far beyond the classroom. Its discussions generated groundbreaking ideas for the future of English language teaching while shaping positive changes in the sector – from improving teaching quality to prioritizing mental well-being and inclusiveness.
Mr. Steven Happel, Senior Academic Manager at VUS, remarked:
“We believe that VUS TESOL has created a meaningful impact, spreading the message that education is not only about delivering knowledge but also about building joy and connection. VUS will continue to accompany the ELT community on its journey of improving teaching quality, contributing to the sustainable development of education in Vietnam.”
Through 24 diverse sessions, participants explored practical approaches ranging from simple activities that encourage learner autonomy and reduce anxiety, to strategies that strengthen community spirit and bring joy to learning.
The discussion topics themselves drew remarkable attention from the audience, offering fresh perspectives and practical insights that resonated strongly with teachers and educators in the hall.
The theme: “Working with Wellbeing: From Theory to Classroom Practice” – Mr. Oliver Bayley (Oxford University Press)
The session explored the growing role of wellbeing in language education, asking whether it should be part of classrooms and, if so, how to apply it effectively. Participants reflected on their own understanding, shared current practices, and discovered practical strategies that enhance wellbeing, boost motivation, and improve both teaching and learning outcomes.
The theme: “Breathe in Meditation – Breathe out Meditation” – Ms. Giannari Eleni (MM Publications)
This session introduced the concept of mediation, a new addition to the Common European Framework for Languages. The discussion showed how mediation can bridge linguistic and cultural gaps, empower learners to act as effective intermediaries, and offered practical methods for teaching these skills in the classroom.
The theme: “Speak Up, Join In: Collaborative Tasks for a Happier Classroom” – Ms. Thai Thuy Dung and Ms. Nguyen Ngoc Hieu (VUS)
The session “Speak Up, Join In”, led by two authors drawing on their extensive teaching experience at VUS, highlighted that inclusion and well-being are as important as academic outcomes. By applying purposeful pair and group work, teachers can create supportive, student-centered classrooms that spark confidence, reduce anxiety, and inspire long-term growth — a philosophy that reflects VUS’s commitment to empowering learners.
The Debate – A highlight of TESOL 2025
Building on the resounding success of The Debate 2024, where the audience’s enthusiasm, curiosity, and active contributions turned the session into a true highlight and the topics spread widely across media, The Debate 2025 stands out as the most anticipated activity of the 2025 VUS TESOL Conference, featuring the provocative motion:
“ESL teachers are no longer needed to learn English.”
The session featured representatives from international educational organizations such as E-future, Macmillan Education, Oxford University Press, along with VUS, creating an energetic and thought-provoking atmosphere.
In the Debate 2025, clash of ideas was sharp and compelling. On the In Favor side, Mr. Nathan Waller and Mr. Nathan Waller argued that “AI systems will be more capable and more intelligent than a human being”. On the other side, Ms. Hannah Ruppert and Ms. Vu Thi Thu Nga, for the Against team, contended that “Language is a conversation. It’s not a solo activity. It’s not staring at a screen”. The atmosphere was charged and dynamic, with participants far from being passive listeners; they engaged enthusiastically, sharing their perspectives and casting real-time votes that shaped the outcome.
“The Debate was one of the most interesting parts of the Conference as it offered different perspectives and insights from the debaters. We participants had the chance to contribute our own views, which made us feel that our voices truly mattered. Another great aspect was that the final result was decided entirely by participants through live voting, ensuring a fair and inclusive competition. I really enjoyed this part.”
Relive the vibrant atmosphere of the The 2025 VUS TESOL Conference in our highlight video here:
The 2025 TESOL Conference – Closing a journey, opening a vision
The VUS TESOL Conference 2025 has come to a close, yet its impact continues to resonate. The discussions and debates provided not only new knowledge but also a confirmation that language education is a journey of joy, connection, and aspiration for both teachers and learners.
At VUS, we believe that the true success of The 2025 VUS TESOL Conference is reflected not only in the knowledge shared on stage, but also in the voices of those who experienced it firsthand. The vibrant energy in the hall, the thoughtful discussions, and the genuine excitement of our participants became powerful affirmations of the conference’s impact. Their positive feedback stands as both recognition and encouragement for us to continue creating platforms where educators can learn, connect, and be inspired together. Here are some of the reflections they shared with us:
“Shoutout to the 2025 VUS TESOL Conference! The event is extremely special and professional from the organizers and experts. This event is a great opportunity for me to connect with fellow educators, share ideas, and learn from leading experts around the world. I’m excited to grow professionally and bring fresh insights back to my students”
“This is truly a meaningful program, especially for new teachers and those with little experience, because this conference not only allows us to gain more knowledge but also provides a great environment to practice English. It is a place where everyone can understand and use English comfortably with strangers, colleagues, and more importantly narrow the gap with our mentors (sponsors). I hope there will be more meaningful workshops like this from VUS. Sincere thanks to the organizers, sponsors, and all the teachers.”
VUS is proud to lead the way in connecting Vietnam’s ELT community with global trends. The 2025 VUS TESOL Conference proved that when teachers are empowered and knowledge is shared, the future of education will be built on collaboration, empathy, and enduring trust.
Do you want to be part of this journey of spreading knowledge with VUS?
Join us in the upcoming The VUS TESOL conferences to stay ahead of global trends, share experiences, and create lasting change for English language education in Vietnam.
👉 VUS is always ready to welcome you!
