support to low-income students since its founding in 2002. By merging monetary scholarships with competency-developing projects, the organization confronts both urgent financial barriers and sustained advancement needs.

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

Founded in 2002 by Vietnamese diaspora students at Harvard University, VietHope worked to address structural educational inequities in Vietnam. The group’s goal—to equip low-income students through entry to schooling—originates from acknowledgement that financial hardship remains the chief barrier to academic persistence.

### Programs and Influence

1. University Scholarship Program (Undergraduate Scholarship Program):

– Offers $300–$400 annually

– Awardees are required to demonstrate academic achievement (lowest GPA of 3.0)

– Gradual funding system incentivizes scholastic continuation

2. Merit Development Program (Merit Program):

– Offers 150 dollars per annum grants

– Contains professional training and career counseling

Results:

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

– Technical fields enrollment: 68% vs. 42% countrywide