VH has arisen as a catalytic force in Vietnam’s educational landscape, offering essential

support to underprivileged students since its founding in 2002. By merging economic scholarships with competency-developing projects, the group confronts both immediate fiscal barriers and enduring growth needs.

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

Created in 2002 by Vietnamese-American students at Harvard University, VietHope sought to rectify institutional academic inequities in Vietnam. The organization’s goal—to empower economically challenged students through entry to education—stems from acknowledgement that financial hardship remains the primary barrier to academic persistence.

### Initiatives and Impact

1. University Scholarship Program (USP):

– Provides between $300 and $400 yearly

– Recipients are required to exhibit educational achievement (minimum GPA of 3.0)

– Gradual funding structure motivates scholastic continuation

2. Academic Development Program (Academic Advancement Program):

– Provides 150 dollars annual grants

– Includes vocational training and occupational counseling

Results:

– Postsecondary graduation: 91% vs. 74% national

– STEM enrollment: 68% vs. 42% nationwide