Recap of the 2026 First-Semester Graduation Thesis Defense
Following the successful first day of the 2026 First-Semester Graduation Thesis Defense, on July 3, 2026, students from Cohorts K47 and K48 of the Bachelor of Architecture and Urban Design (BAUD) program entered the final day of the defense, marking the completion of years of dedicated research, design, and academic pursuit at the Institute of Smart City and Management, University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH–ISCM).
Students capturing memorable moments with their professors after the thesis defense
On the second day, Defense Committee 3 continued evaluating the graduation theses with the participation of Assoc. Prof. Trinh Tu Anh, M.A. Do Le Phuc Tam, M.Arch. Hoang Le Nam Hai, M.Arch. Ngo Ngoc Quang, and Architect Phan Huu Phuc. Bringing together lecturers, experts, and industry representatives in architecture, urban planning, and urban development, the Committee provided valuable academic feedback and constructive critiques, helping students further refine their projects while broadening their academic and practical perspectives.
The committee members of Panel 3 focus on preparing feedback for the students' presentations
During the defense sessions, students confidently presented their design concepts, architectural models, technical drawings, and urban planning solutions before the Committee. Through in-depth discussions and critical questions, the Committee not only evaluated the feasibility and academic foundation of each project but also encouraged students to examine their work from multiple perspectives, strengthening their critical thinking, presentation skills, and professional competence.
Students confidently presenting their graduation thesis projects
In the afternoon, the Closing Ceremony of the 2026 First-Semester Graduation Thesis Defense was held in a formal atmosphere with the participation of lecturers from all three Defense Committees and students of the Bachelor of Architecture and Urban Design (BAUD) program. The ceremony served as an opportunity to reflect on the two-day defense process while recognizing the dedication, perseverance, and achievements of the graduating students throughout their academic journey at ISCM.
During the ceremony, the Defense Committees officially announced the thesis defense results and honored the Top 3 Outstanding Graduates:
🏆 Valedictorian: Nguyen Truong Nhu Y - Vinh Te Meditation Center, An Giang
🥈 First Salutatorian: Do Kieu Tu - Urban Design: Living Space for Riverside Communities along the Cho Dem River (Segment from Binh Dien Wholesale Market to Vo Tran Chi Street)
🥉 Second Salutatorian: Nguyen Khanh Hien - Urban Design for an Eco-City Model: Flood-Adaptive Approach in Quy Nhon, Binh Dinh
ISCM would also like to congratulate all graduating students on successfully reaching this significant milestone and celebrating the remarkable achievements they have earned through years of dedication and hard work.
Students experiencing a moment of suspense right before the final results are announced
Delivering the closing remarks, Assoc. Prof. Trinh Tu Anh, Director of the Institute of Smart City and Management, University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH–ISCM), shared: "Congratulations to all of you on reaching this meaningful milestone in your university journey. Regardless of the outcome, I hope you will continue to embrace lifelong learning, nurture your creativity, remain resilient, and apply the knowledge and skills you have gained at ISCM to build your careers and contribute to the advancement of architecture, urban planning, and smart cities in the future."
Assoc. Prof. Trinh Tu Anh (Council Chair) shares heartfelt words of encouragement with the students at the closing ceremony.
The ceremony concluded with memorable group photos of students, faculty members, and the Defense Committees, capturing a meaningful milestone in their university journey. While the Graduation Thesis Defense marks the end of one chapter, it also opens the door to new opportunities and exciting challenges ahead.
🎓 We look forward to seeing our BAUD graduates again at the Graduation Ceremony later this year! Wishing you all the very best as you continue to pursue your passion, embrace innovation, and confidently move forward to become talented architects and urban designers who contribute to creating more sustainable communities in the years to come.
News and Photos: Institute of Smart City and Management (ISCM)