On 13 May 2026, the Faculty of Biology – Biotechnology at VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) organised the seminar “Communicating with Confidence on the Globalised Campus”, featuring a sharing session by Dr Jenson J. A. Deokiesingh, Lecturer at the Centre for English Language Communication, National University of Singapore (NUS). The seminar introduced practical perspectives on academic communication and language development within international educational contexts.

As higher education becomes increasingly internationalised, academic communication skills in English are emerging as an essential requirement for students, not only in learning activities but also in research, collaboration, and international engagement. Alongside linguistic competence, students are expected to cultivate confidence, presentation skills, and professional communication styles suited to multicultural environments.

During the seminar, Dr Jenson J. A. Deokiesingh examined common challenges encountered by students when communicating and delivering presentations in English, including pressure related to pronunciation, fluency, fear of making mistakes, and concerns about judgement within international settings. According to Dr Deokiesingh, one of the greatest barriers to academic communication does not arise solely from language proficiency, but from a lack of confidence and hesitation in expressing personal viewpoints.

Dr Deokiesingh also emphasised that confident communication does not require individuals to abandon personal identity or pursue a single model of “standard English”. Rather, effective communication depends upon the ability to convey ideas clearly, establish meaningful engagement with audiences, and demonstrate academic thinking in a coherent and professional manner.

Through discussions and interactive activities, students explored the distinctions between academic writing and academic presentation; approaches to structuring content; methods for strengthening verbal expression; techniques for sustaining audience engagement; and strategies for developing a natural yet academically appropriate presentation style. Practical examples and accessible approaches encouraged students to take a more proactive role in strengthening communication skills within international environments.

Beyond introducing practical academic communication skills, the seminar encouraged students to express perspectives with greater confidence, develop self-assurance, and engage more actively within international contexts. Such initiatives contribute to the development of globally engaged learners equipped with open-minded perspectives and the adaptability required in contemporary higher education.