Hanoi: A city nurturing knowledge

Not only is it the millennial capital rich in cultural heritage, but today’s Hanoi is also shaping the image of a learning city – where knowledge extends beyond classrooms to libraries, public spaces, and digital environments. The blend of traditional learning values and digital transformation is creating a resilient rhythm of expertise at the city's core.

From the Learning Society Orientation

In its human resource development strategy, Hanoi has consistently implemented the "learning society" model, expanding the network of community learning centres, promoting the learning movement, and fostering a reading culture.

The city's cultural and educational infrastructure is quite diverse, with public libraries, art centres, and community activity spaces spreading across urban and suburban areas. Hanoi Library has been modernised, integrating technology, expanding reading spaces, and organising book introductions, seminars, and cultural exchanges. These activities bring knowledge closer to the people, not just within classrooms but also in everyday life.

Public spaces such as parks, squares, pedestrian zones, and local cultural houses are increasingly being utilised for multiple functions. Besides serving as venues for entertainment and community activities, these locations have become conducive environments for reading, skill exchanges, and club activities. Utilising shared spaces for learning reflects a human-centred urban development approach.

Today’s Hanoi is also shaping the image of a learning city – where knowledge extends beyond classrooms to libraries, public spaces, and digital environments.

International Experiences and Hanoi's Unique Characteristics

The concept of a "learning city" has been promoted by many cities worldwide as part of their sustainable development strategies. In Europe, public libraries integrate coworking spaces and digital data. Japan develops community bookcases in residential areas. Singapore encourages lifelong learning through community centres combined with skill training.

Hanoi embraces the spirit of this trend: encouraging lifelong learning, enhancing access to knowledge, and promoting community participation. However, the city implements it in a way that suits its practical conditions rather than copying existing models.

The distinctive feature lies in the harmony between tradition and modernity. Learning spaces do not necessarily have to be large-scale centres or high-tech facilities; they can be local libraries, small reading rooms, ward cultural houses, or skill exchange sessions. This closeness creates Hanoi's unique character – where knowledge is intertwined with life rather than separate from it.

Digital Transformation – A Catalyst for Open Learning Spaces

Amidst widespread digital transformation, education and reading culture in Hanoi are strongly supported by technology.

The digitisation of documents, the development of online search systems, library card registration via electronic platforms, and automated book borrowing and returning applications make it more convenient for people to access knowledge sources. Many seminars, book introductions, and cultural activities are delivered through online platforms, extending the reach beyond physical spaces.

Digital transformation does not diminish the role of public spaces; instead, it creates a synergistic effect. Participants can explore materials before visiting the library, connect with study groups online, and then meet for direct exchanges. The combination of online and offline – a flexible learning model – is becoming a trend that fits the modern lifestyle.

Simultaneously, the application of technology also enhances public digital skills, from information searching and evaluation to interaction skills in online environments – crucial factors in the context of international integration.

The Tradition of Learning – A Sustainable Foundation

The spirit of learning has long been a part of Hanoi's cultural identity. From the scholarly traditions of Thang Long to the modern school system, knowledge has always been valued as the foundation of development.

Today, this spirit continues to manifest through the aspiration to master new knowledge: foreign languages, technology, and global skills. Expanding learning activities to public spaces does not replace formal education but adds a flexible support layer, enabling people to be more proactive in their personal development.

Open learning spaces thus extend the tradition of learning in the context of urbanisation and integration.

Recognising Challenges for Sustainable Development

Leveraging public spaces for learning activities also poses organisational and management challenges. It is essential to balance the needs for learning, community activities, and urban order. Not all locations are ready for regular learning activities without close coordination between the community and management agencies.

Moreover, in the context of rapid digital transformation, the technology access gap among different population groups remains a concern. Equipping digital skills and supporting appropriate infrastructure will help build a comprehensive and inclusive learning society.

Such flexible and cautious adjustments will help the open learning trend develop sustainably, rather than merely as a movement.

Hanoi – The Image of a Learning City

In the rhythm of modern life, the ability to learn continuously becomes a key factor for sustainable development. Hanoi, with its cultural heritage and integration orientation, is gradually building a conducive environment for this process.

Public spaces are being utilised for multiple functions. Libraries and cultural houses are becoming more dynamic. Digital technology connects the community more effectively. Citizens – especially the youth – actively seek knowledge, develop skills, and participate in cultural activities.

This movement may not be loud, but it is persistent. And in the harmonious blend of traditional learning values, rich public spaces, and the momentum of digital transformation, Hanoi is affirming its image as a dynamic, humane, and integrated city – where knowledge resides at its heart.

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