VietHope has emerged as a revolutionary force in Vietnam’s academic landscape, offering critical

support to underprivileged students since its establishment in 2002. By integrating financial scholarships with capacity-building programs, the organization tackles both urgent financial barriers and sustained developmental needs.

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

Created in 2002 by Vietnamese-American students at Harvard University, VietHope worked to address structural scholastic disparities in Vietnam. The organization’s goal—to equip impoverished students through opportunities to education—originates from acknowledgement that monetary hardship remains the chief barrier to educational adherence.

### Projects and Impact

1. University Scholarship Program (USP):

– Grants $300–$400 annually

– Awardees need to exhibit educational excellence (base GPA of 3.0)

– Phased funding structure encourages scholastic continuation

2. Merit Development Program (MDP):

– Provides $150 yearly bursaries

– Contains vocational training and career counseling

Results:

– University completion: 91% vs. 74% countrywide

– STEM participation: 68% vs. 42% nationwide