Learn foreign languages ​​for free in the heart of Saigon

A foreign language class at VSG - Photo: HO NHUONG

The class not only helps participants improve their foreign language skills but is also a place to exchange and connect with those who share the same passion.

From the community, for the community

Established in 2017 as a gathering place for sports lovers, VSG aims to build a healthy and friendly sports environment. The group has organized many activities such as swimming, dancing, badminton to create conditions for everyone to exercise and socialize.

The founder of VSG shared that this is not an official organization, has no leader, binding rules or fixed budget. VSG operates based on the spirit of healthy sports, sharing and connecting people who love sports, and at the same time creating opportunities for people to exchange experiences, knowledge and skills in life.

During its operation, the group realized that the need to learn foreign languages ​​in the community was huge. Therefore, in addition to sports activities, VSG decided to open more free foreign language classes.

VSG's foreign language classes are held at inD Cafe (229 Ly Thai To, Ward 9, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City) with a fixed schedule: Mondays are for Spanish, Fridays are for beginner and basic Thai, Saturdays are for English, and Sundays are for beginner and specialized Chinese. VSG plans to open a French class in April 2025.

The special feature of the classes is that they are based on everyone's contribution. Teachers are volunteers, have good foreign language skills and pedagogical skills. The classes take place in a cafe, and students only need to pay for their own drinks.

The curriculum is built flexibly, with classes using pre-prepared curriculum, self-prepared classes, or by topic for each session. VSG currently has 7 volunteer teachers, with the Thai language class attracting the most students.

"It is not difficult to convince students to join teaching, because everyone has in common the desire to support each other in learning foreign languages ​​and communication" - the founder of VSG shared.

Effective foreign language exchange space

The class takes place in a comfortable atmosphere, close to learners of many ages. Most people listen attentively to pronunciation, learn simple communication sentences. When making mistakes, there is no shyness or pressure, instead there is encouragement and support from friends around.

In addition to enriching knowledge, VSG classes also help learners answer cultural questions under direct guidance from native speakers.

Huynh Quang Dang Khoa (23 years old, Ho Chi Minh City) - a student at VSG - said he started attending classes from August 2024 with Thai and Chinese classes. Khoa decided to study at VSG because this is a free class, suitable for his conditions because he did not have enough money to attend courses at the center.

Although free, according to Khoa, the quality of teaching is very good, the instructors are enthusiastic and dedicated.

"Thanks to the dedication of my teachers, I was able to read basic Thai after completing the introductory class. From zero, I learned to read and write a language that was considered quite difficult," Khoa shared.

Similarly, Ms. Nguyen Hang (43 years old, Ho Chi Minh City) said that because of her love for Thai, she joined the class since March 2024. One of the reasons why she is attached to the class is the close, friendly environment, everyone is always ready to support each other even after class. Thanks to that, her Thai has improved significantly.

The support, encouragement and open-mindedness make VSG's classroom a miniature community, where each lesson is not only about acquiring knowledge, but also about interesting experiences.

Happy to teach and share

Le Thanh, the instructor of the Thai language class, said he was initially hesitant because he had not received any training in teaching skills. However, over time, teaching has become a habit. "Teaching makes me very happy. I believe that sharing language knowledge can help someone in their life," Thanh said.

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Source: https://tuoitre.vn/hoc-ngoai-ngu-mien-phi-giua-long-sai-gon-20250325215856495.htm