News and Ethnic Groups Newspaper, VNA - From the case of the missing student in Tam Dao: Don't gamble with safety through complacency.
After more than 36 hours of continuous searching, the first-year male student from Dai Nam University who went missing in the Tam Dao area has been found and safely returned. Speaking about the incident, a representative from Dai Nam University shared that the student's safe return is good news; but his story of getting lost serves as a valuable lesson for students participating in outdoor activities.
Earlier, at around 6 PM on April 19th, Nguyen Tuan Anh (K19) lost contact with his family while hiking with a group of friends in Vinh Ninh village, Dao Tru commune, Phu Tho province. The period that followed was filled with tension for his family, teachers, and friends.
According to representatives from Dai Nam University, throughout the search process, the university closely followed every piece of information with great concern, while placing their trust in the efforts of the authorities and the support of the local people. When the news that the male student had been found safe was confirmed, it was a moment of overwhelming emotion – joy mixed with profound gratitude to all those who participated in and followed this journey. This incident reinforces our belief that behind every student is not only their family, but also their teachers, friends, and a community that always cares and is ready to stand by them, especially during difficult times.
![]()
The male student and his mother pose for a photo with the rescue team. Photo: CH
However, according to Ms. Cao Thi Hoa, Vice President of the Board of Directors of Dai Nam University, fortunately, the student was found safe. But from this story, there are things that not only young people but anyone who likes to travel or explore should remember. Many incidents don't stem from anything too serious, but begin with very small mistakes, such as thinking that they know the way, just go a short distance and then come back, that they still have phone signal, that the weather is fine, and that they'll be okay alone.
However, nature doesn't operate according to human whims. Therefore, before each trip, especially mountain climbing, trekking, or exploring unfamiliar places, remember to inform your family or friends about your itinerary and avoid going alone into dangerous areas. Also, check the weather before departure, fully charge your phone, bring a power bank, and pack water, snacks, and basic medicine.
Ms. Cao Thi Hoa emphasized that young people need to know when to stop and not try to conquer challenges when conditions are unsafe. Many young people enjoy the thrill of conquest. That's not wrong, but maturity isn't about how reckless you are, but about knowing your limits. "I believe that traveling to experience new things is wonderful, but traveling and returning safely is the most fulfilling journey," Ms. Hoa said.
After Tuan Anh's family lost contact with him, that same night, authorities mobilized over 100 people, including police, military, medical personnel, and local residents, divided into 8 search teams. They also used drones equipped with thermal cameras to conduct a wide-ranging search in the complex mountainous terrain.
After several hours of searching, authorities found student Nguyen Tuan Anh at an altitude of approximately 600 meters. Authorities are continuing to implement measures to ensure the student's safe descent from the mountain and to monitor his health condition.
Earlier, on the morning of April 19th, student Nguyen Tuan Anh and a group of 10 people set off from the Doc Rit area (Vinh Ninh village, Dao Tru commune, Phu Tho province) to conquer the summit of Tam Dao Bac (approximately 1,592m high). During their journey through the complex mountainous terrain, at around 6 PM that same day, the group lost track of Tuan Anh and were unable to contact him.
Currently, authorities are continuing to implement safety measures and monitor the health status of this student.
Theo Báo Tin tức và Dân tộc, TTXVN