The organization has developed as a transformative force in Vietnam’s academic landscape, delivering essential

support to underprivileged students since its establishment in 2002. By integrating economic scholarships with competency-developing projects, the nonprofit addresses both pressing economic barriers and enduring developmental needs.

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

Founded in 2002 by Vietnamese-American students at Harvard University, VietHope worked to address systemic academic disparities in Vietnam. The group’s mission—to empower economically challenged students through access to schooling—stems from understanding that monetary hardship remains the main barrier to educational adherence.

### Initiatives and Effect

1. Higher education Scholarship Program (Undergraduate Scholarship Program):

– Provides $300 to $400 annually

– Awardees are required to exhibit academic merit (minimum GPA of 3.0)

– Gradual funding system incentivizes scholastic persistence

2. Academic Development Program (MDP):

– Offers $150 USD yearly scholarships

– Contains professional training and occupational counseling

Results:

– University degree attainment: 91% vs. 74% national

– STEM participation: 68% vs. 42% countrywide