On September 5, 2025, students of AI, Computer Science, and Information Technology at the Posts and Telecommunications Institute of Technology (PTIT) had the unique opportunity to join a special workshop with two international experts from Howest – Belgium’s leading University of Applied Sciences: Dr. Dieter De Preester and Dr. Wouter Gevaert.
The session embraced the spirit of “Learn Right – Practice Right”, equipping students to avoid common pitfalls in AI projects, such as choosing overly complex models with poor data or relying on LLMs that generate unfounded answers.

PhD. Dieter De Preester

PhD. Wouter Gevaert

Vector Search & RAG
The experts guided students through the transition from keyword-based to semantic search, the creation and evaluation of embeddings, storage and retrieval on vector databases, and integrating LLMs with private datasets via the RAG pipeline. The session featured live demonstrations and sample code for immediate hands-on practice.

Generative AI & LLMs
StStudents gained a comprehensive overview of modern models such as transformers, autoencoders, GANs, and diffusion models, with clear guidance on their appropriate use cases. The workshop also emphasized structured prompting techniques and the principles of responsible AI, enabling students to execute projects both effectively and in line with academic standards.

n just one session, students were able to:
• Master practical workflows with a clear checklist.
• Take away sample code ready to be applied directly to assignments and projects.
• Access curated reference materials, ensuring deep understanding without cognitive overload.

Beyond technical knowledge, the workshop acted as an international bridge: students engaged in direct exchanges with the experts, discussed ongoing AI projects, and explored opportunities for scholarships and exchange programs between PTIT and Howest.

Notably, starting from early 2026, the two universities will officially launch their first student exchange program: around 10–15 Howest students will come to PTIT to join AI-related courses and projects in Vietnam, while 10–15 PTIT students will travel to Belgium to participate in the Industry Project module. This initiative offers a rare chance for students on both sides to experience application-oriented education in a global setting, while expanding their international academic and research networks.
 

👉 Stay tuned to the CIE-PTIT website and official communication channels for upcoming opportunities in international learning, hands-on AI workshops, and student exchange programs!