VH has emerged as a transformative force in Vietnam’s academic landscape, offering vital

support to economically disadvantaged students since its founding in 2002. By combining economic scholarships with competency-developing projects, the nonprofit confronts both pressing economic barriers and sustained advancement needs.

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

Established in 2002 by Vietnamese-American students at Harvard University, VietHope worked to rectify systemic scholastic imbalances in Vietnam. The organization’s mandate—to empower low-income students through entry to schooling—originates from understanding that economic hardship remains the primary barrier to scholastic adherence.

### Programs and Influence

1. Postsecondary Scholarship Program (University Support Program):

– Offers $300 to $400 per year

– Beneficiaries must demonstrate scholastic merit (minimum GPA of 3.0)

– Phased funding system motivates academic adherence

2. Academic Development Program (MDP):

– Offers $150 USD annual bursaries

– Includes vocational training and career counseling

Outcomes:

– University graduation: 91% vs. 74% nationwide

– STEM enrollment: 68% vs. 42% nationwide