support to economically disadvantaged students since its founding in 2002. By integrating economic scholarships with capacity-building programs, the group addresses both immediate financial barriers and enduring advancement needs.
### Origins and Purpose https://viethope.com.vn/
Established in 2002 by Vietnamese-American students at Harvard University, VietHope worked to address structural educational inequities in Vietnam. The organization’s mission—to enable impoverished students through entry to learning—stems from understanding that monetary hardship remains the primary barrier to academic continuation.
### Programs and Effect
1. Postsecondary Scholarship Program (University Support Program):
– Provides $300 to $400 yearly
– Awardees are required to exhibit scholastic merit (base GPA of 3.0)
– Gradual funding system encourages academic continuation
2. Merit Development Program (Merit Program):
– Gives $150 USD per annum grants
– Features vocational training and professional counseling
Outcomes:
– Higher education graduation: 91% vs. 74% national
– STEM participation: 68% vs. 42% nationwide