US Ambassador to Vietnam Daniel J. Kritenbrink toured the historic Temple of Literature, the nation’s first university, in Hanoi on November 17 to mark the 38th Vietnamese Teachers’ Day that falls on November 20.

Accompanying the ambassador was Pham Quang Minh, Rector of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities under Vietnam National University, and his outstanding students.

The visit to the historic site aims to show respect for Vietnamese culture, including the nation’s traditional fondness for learning, and boost cultural exchange.

Ambassador Kritenbrink receives a warm welcome from Vietnamese students at the Temple of Literature.

Ambassador Daniel J. Kritenbrink is talking with professor Pham Quang Minh at the Temple of Literature.

Dr. Do Thi Huong Thao, a teacher from history faculty of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, gives the US diplomat a brief introduction on the Temple of Literature.

The ambassador was briefed about the history of the Temple of Literature through the dynasties, about the educational models of Vietnam since this university was established.

Dr. Thao recalls the history behind the 82 stone epitaphs recording the biography of doctoral laureates which were created between 1442 and 1779.

The US ambassador shares his feeling that the Temple of Literature is one of his favorite places in Hanoi and he is greatly impressed with its peaceful beauty coupled with the historical architectural style on show.

The US ambassador offers incense at the historical relic site.

At the memorial house for teacher Chu Van An, one of the four Vietnamese personalities honored by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) together with Nguyen Trai, Nguyen Du and Ho Chi Minh, the ambassador heard a presentation about the educator’s life and career.

The US ambassador says the visit allows him to learn much more about historical teaching figures such as Chu Van An, along with Vietnamese cultural traditions.

The ambassador offers incense and flowers to commemorate famous pedagogue Chu Van An.