The Impact of the 1-and-1 Talent Scholarship Program

Nguyen Huy Can, who leads the HCM City Study Encouragement Association, highlighted that the 1-and-1 talent scholarship initiative has made a significant impact on the development of skilled individuals in society.

The concept of “1-and-1” refers to a system where one sponsor supports one student throughout their university studies.

This scholarship program stands out due to its remarkable purpose; it not only alleviates financial burdens but also transforms the lives of students who work hard to succeed. The touching stories of scholarship recipients have garnered widespread admiration from the community.

Can shared that the 1-and-1 scholarship embodies the generosity of past benefactors, whose families continue to support students as a way to fulfill their legacy, thus igniting hope and encouraging student aspirations.

Notably, many contributors to this program are located abroad. They provide financial assistance to students because they recognize the perseverance and determination needed to overcome challenges, taking pride in the accomplishments of the beneficiaries.

For two decades, organizations like JX Mekong and the Lawrence S. Ting Community Assistance Fund have partnered with the 1-and-1 scholarship initiative. This collaboration reflects not only a commitment to students but also a broader social responsibility to foster talented individuals for national growth.

Can emphasized that the 1-and-1 scholarships carry deep affection, with contributions from those who carefully save to create these opportunities for students.

“In many cases, entire families come together to support scholarships. Despite economic challenges leading to a decline in corporate contributions, numerous friendship groups are coming together to enhance support,” he said.

For instance, the group led by Do Thi Giang and Tran Vu Anh Thu comprises over 50 members who have participated in the support initiative for years. This shift has led to a broadening of the scholarship model from “1-and-1” to “1-and-many” or even “many-and-1.”

Many anonymous sponsors support the program, often monitoring students’ progress and celebrating their achievements. Some invite underprivileged students to their homes during celebrations like Tet. Examples include the families of Dr. Pham Xuan Hung and the group organized by Nguyen Thi An.

Benefactors generously provide significant scholarships ranging from VND 5 to 12 million annually, with families such as Nguyen Hoai Giang and Nguyen Thi Cuc making notable contributions.

A touching testament is Le Ngoc Ty’s family, who continue to participate in the program after his passing in 2022, helping over 20 students achieve their educational goals.

This scholarship program has also fostered connections among alumni, many of whom have returned to provide support to current students, thus continuing the cycle of generosity.

As part of a larger initiative aimed at cultivating advanced degrees, a group from Dong Hoa has contributed 45 scholarships to deserving individuals.

Ho Phu Bac reported that the 1-and-1 scholarships, described as “scholarships from the heart,” have impacted thousands of students over the past two decades.

The initial five beneficiaries of the program launched in 1999-2000 have become inspiring examples of resilience for future generations.

To date, 2,789 students have benefited from the support of 670 individuals and 53 organizations, with a total funding amount of VND 27,825,050,000.

In 2024, 84 students graduated, four with outstanding honors, and 10 with distinction. Across the entire initiative, 2,273 students completed their degrees, including orientations in finance, banking, and IT.

Many of these students have triumphed over hardships to pursue careers as doctors, teachers, engineers, entrepreneurs, and leaders in various communities, including three doctoral holders and 75 master’s graduates who have been recognized as exemplary citizens and educators.

This year, 77 new students were welcomed into the 1-and-1 scholarship program, including nine from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.