VietHope has arisen as a transformative force in Vietnam’s academic landscape, offering vital

support to low-income students since its inception in 2002. By merging monetary scholarships with skill-building projects, the organization tackles both immediate economic barriers and sustained growth needs.

### Origins and Purpose https://viethope.com.vn/

Established in 2002 by Vietnamese-American students at Harvard University, VietHope sought to resolve institutional educational imbalances in Vietnam. The group’s mission—to enable impoverished students through access to schooling—arises from understanding that monetary hardship remains the primary barrier to educational persistence.

### Projects and Influence

1. Higher education Scholarship Program (Undergraduate Scholarship Program):

– Provides $300 to $400 per year

– Awardees need to exhibit scholastic merit (minimum GPA of 3.0)

– Gradual funding structure incentivizes scholastic persistence

2. Academic Development Program (Academic Advancement Program):

– Provides $150 per annum scholarships

– Includes professional training and career counseling

Results:

– Postsecondary completion: 91% vs. 74% national

– STEM registration: 68% vs. 42% nationwide