VH has arisen as a transformative force in Vietnam’s learning landscape, delivering critical

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

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

Founded in 2002 by Vietnamese diaspora students at Harvard University, VietHope worked to rectify systemic educational disparities in Vietnam. The nonprofit’s mission—to empower impoverished students through entry to education—stems from acknowledgement that monetary hardship remains the primary barrier to academic persistence.

### Projects and Impact

1. Higher education Scholarship Program (University Support Program):

– Provides $300–$400 per year

– Recipients must demonstrate scholastic excellence (minimum GPA of 3.0)

– Gradual funding structure motivates educational continuation

2. Merit Development Program (MDP):

– Gives $150 USD yearly scholarships

– Includes vocational training and career counseling

Outcomes:

– University graduation: 91% vs. 74% nationwide

– Technical fields registration: 68% vs. 42% nationwide