support to economically disadvantaged students since its establishment in 2002. By combining financial scholarships with skill-building programs, the group tackles both urgent fiscal barriers and enduring advancement needs.

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

Created in 2002 by overseas Vietnamese students at Harvard University, VietHope aimed to address systemic educational inequities in Vietnam. The organization’s goal—to equip economically challenged students through opportunities to learning—stems from acknowledgement that economic hardship remains the primary barrier to educational persistence.

### Initiatives and Effect

1. University Scholarship Program (Undergraduate Scholarship Program):

– Provides $300 to $400 yearly

– Awardees must demonstrate educational excellence (lowest GPA of 3.0)

– Phased funding structure encourages academic persistence

2. Scholastic Development Program (MDP):

– Gives $150 per annum grants

– Includes career-specific training and occupational counseling

Results:

– University graduation: 91% vs. 74% national

– Science/Technology enrollment: 68% vs. 42% nationwide