The celebration opened with musical performances under the theme “Beloved Mother”, featuring songs that expressed deep affection for motherhood and highlighted the image of Vietnamese women. The performances created a warm and joyful atmosphere, reflecting appreciation for the important role women play in families and in society.

In his remarks, Assoc. Prof. PhD Tran Thanh Duong, Director of the National Institute of Nutrition, extended his congratulations to all female staff members and employees on the occasion of International Women’s Day. He acknowledged and highly appreciated the important contributions made by women to the health sector in general and to the development of the Institute in particular.

According to Assoc. Prof. Tran Thanh Duong, female staff members play an essential role in many areas of the Institute’s work, including scientific research, professional activities, training and nutrition communication. With dedication and a strong sense of responsibility, they have made significant contributions to the Institute’s achievements in protecting and improving community health.

He also expressed confidence that with their intellect, enthusiasm and commitment, the Institute’s female professionals would continue to make important contributions to improving the nutritional status of the population, thereby helping enhance the stature and physical fitness of the Vietnamese people. He emphasized that women working in the health sector not only heal with professional knowledge but also with compassion and care for the community.

Following the remarks by the Institute’s leadership, Dr. Trinh Thi Huyen delivered a presentation on the history and significance of International Women’s Day. She noted that the day originated from movements of female textile workers in the United States in the late nineteenth century who advocated for better working conditions and gender equality. These movements later inspired the International Women’s Conference held in Copenhagen in 1910, where March 8 was officially designated as International Women’s Day.

In Viet Nam, International Women’s Day is also associated with the heroic legacy of the Trung Sisters, who led the first uprising against foreign domination and became symbols of courage and resilience among Vietnamese women.

As part of the event, Assoc. Prof. PhD. Nguyen Trong Hung shared a presentation on family nutrition and maintaining a healthy physique for women. His talk provided practical guidance on balanced diets, healthy lifestyles and maintaining a healthy body shape. The presentation also highlighted the important role of women in shaping healthy eating habits within families, which serves as a foundation for community health and development.

In addition to the professional presentations, the event was also linked with the nationwide “Ao Dai Week 2026” campaign held from March 1 to March 8. Female staff members of the Institute wore traditional ao dai during the first working days of March, contributing to honoring cultural values and promoting the image of modern Vietnamese women who are confident, responsible and creative.

A collective ao dai photo session was also organized as part of the celebration. The colorful traditional dresses not only highlighted cultural beauty but also reflected the solidarity and close bonds among female staff members of the Institute.

The celebration concluded in a joyful atmosphere, reaffirming the Institute’s appreciation for the contributions of women to the mission of protecting and improving public health.

Photos from the event: