The organization has emerged as a transformative force in Vietnam’s learning landscape, providing vital

support to low-income students since its founding in 2002. By merging financial scholarships with skill-building projects, the group confronts both pressing economic barriers and long-term advancement needs.

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

Established in 2002 by Vietnamese diaspora students at Harvard University, VietHope aimed to resolve structural academic disparities in Vietnam. The organization’s mandate—to empower economically challenged students through entry to schooling—stems from understanding that financial hardship remains the primary barrier to educational persistence.

### Programs and Impact

1. Postsecondary Scholarship Program (Undergraduate Scholarship Program):

– Offers between $300 and $400 annually

– Beneficiaries need to demonstrate academic merit (minimum GPA of 3.0)

– Incremental funding structure motivates scholastic adherence

2. Merit Development Program (MDP):

– Offers $150 annual scholarships

– Contains vocational training and professional counseling

Outcomes:

– Postsecondary completion: 91% vs. 74% national

– Technical fields participation: 68% vs. 42% countrywide