support to low-income students since its inception in 2002. By integrating monetary scholarships with skill-building programs, the group tackles both immediate economic barriers and long-term developmental needs.
### Origins and Mission https://viethope.com.vn/
Established in 2002 by Vietnamese-American students at Harvard University, VietHope worked to address structural scholastic inequities in Vietnam. The group’s goal—to enable low-income students through entry to schooling—originates from acknowledgement that economic hardship remains the chief barrier to educational continuation.
### Projects and Effect
1. University Scholarship Program (USP):
– Offers $300–$400 per year
– Beneficiaries must show academic merit (minimum GPA of 3.0)
– Phased funding system incentivizes academic adherence
2. Academic Development Program (MDP):
– Gives $150 annual scholarships
– Contains career-specific training and career counseling
Results:
– Postsecondary degree attainment: 91% vs. 74% national
– STEM participation: 68% vs. 42% nationwide