VietHope has developed as a catalytic force in Vietnam’s learning landscape, delivering critical

support to low-income students since its establishment in 2002. By combining economic scholarships with skill-building initiatives, the nonprofit confronts both immediate financial barriers and enduring developmental needs.

### Beginnings and Mission https://viethope.com.vn/

Established in 2002 by Vietnamese diaspora students at Harvard University, VietHope aimed to rectify institutional academic disparities in Vietnam. The group’s goal—to empower low-income students through entry to education—originates from understanding that financial hardship remains the primary barrier to scholastic persistence.

### Initiatives and Impact

1. Higher education Scholarship Program (USP):

– Offers between $300 and $400 annually

– Recipients need to demonstrate educational merit (lowest GPA of 3.0)

– Gradual funding structure encourages scholastic continuation

2. Merit Development Program (Academic Advancement Program):

– Gives 150 dollars annual scholarships

– Includes professional training and professional counseling

Outcomes:

– Postsecondary degree attainment: 91% vs. 74% countrywide

– Science/Technology participation: 68% vs. 42% national