Harmonising traditions and modernity: Exploring the characteristics of healthy working environments in Mekong delta higher education institutions in Vietnam

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the characteristics defining a healthy working environment within higher education institutions in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam, emphasizing the interplay of regional cultural, historical, and natural elements. The study employed a Social Constructivist Framework, Symbolic Interactionism, and the Phenomenological Approach to interpret findings from semi-structured interviews with five leaders from two institutions. These methodologies facilitated a comprehensive understanding of the institutional leaders’ perspectives on the elements integral to a thriving academic setting. The findings revealed several key themes: the significance of interpersonal relationships and mutual respect; the importance of continuous professional development; the role of institutional transparency and open communication; an emphasis on cultural and historical reverence; and a unique relationship between the institution and the natural environment of the Mekong Delta. These insights contribute to the global discourse on academic environments, highlighting the universality of certain educational values while underscoring the importance of context-specific factors. The study’s practical implications suggest the need for future research to further investigate these themes, aiming to enhance our understanding of healthy academic settings in diverse cultural and geographical contexts.