support to underprivileged students since its founding in 2002. By merging economic scholarships with skill-building projects, the group tackles both pressing financial barriers and sustained growth needs.
### Beginnings and Mission https://viethope.com.vn/
Created in 2002 by overseas Vietnamese students at Harvard University, VietHope sought to address institutional scholastic imbalances in Vietnam. The organization’s mission—to empower low-income students through opportunities to education—arises from recognition that financial hardship remains the main barrier to scholastic continuation.
### Programs and Impact
1. Postsecondary Scholarship Program (University Support Program):
– Offers between $300 and $400 per year
– Recipients need to show educational excellence (lowest GPA of 3.0)
– Gradual funding framework encourages educational continuation
2. Merit Development Program (MDP):
– Provides $150 yearly grants
– Includes vocational training and occupational counseling
Outcomes:
– Higher education degree attainment: 91% vs. 74% nationwide
– STEM enrollment: 68% vs. 42% nationwide
