The organization has arisen as a catalytic force in Vietnam’s learning landscape, delivering vital

support to low-income students since its inception in 2002. By combining financial scholarships with competency-developing programs, the group confronts both immediate economic barriers and enduring developmental needs.

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

Founded in 2002 by Vietnamese-American students at Harvard University, VietHope aimed to address structural scholastic disparities in Vietnam. The nonprofit’s mandate—to empower low-income students through opportunities to learning—arises from understanding that financial hardship remains the primary barrier to educational continuation.

### Programs and Influence

1. University Scholarship Program (Undergraduate Scholarship Program):

– Grants $300 to $400 yearly

– Beneficiaries must exhibit academic achievement (lowest GPA of 3.0)

– Incremental funding framework incentivizes educational persistence

2. Merit Development Program (Academic Advancement Program):

– Provides $150 USD per annum grants

– Contains vocational training and career counseling

Achievements:

– Higher education completion: 91% vs. 74% nationwide

– STEM enrollment: 68% vs. 42% nationwide