fbpx

So long as we can keep going to school, the door to a future brighter stays open

date_range2026-01-26

“Before receiving the scholarship, the end of each month was always filled with worry. My parents had to count every penny and hope that we could cover school fees, books, living costs, and more for me and my sibling.”

That’s the story of Thanh Giàu, currently a Year 12 student in Tiền Giang province (Mekong Delta), who has been a saigonchildren scholarship recipient since Year 8. At that time, his family faced serious financial hardship: his father, a construction labourer, had become long-term unemployed due to the COVID-19 outbreak, while his mother’s breakfast stall was struggling due to reduced customers. Despite this, they did everything they could to keep both children in school.

One day, Giàu’s teacher nominated him for a saigonchildren scholarship after learning about his family’s situation. A few weeks later, teachers and local authorities visited the family home to assess and confirm the circumstances, and Giàu was officially awarded the scholarship. The whole family was overjoyed, and the words his teacher spoke that day have stayed with him ever since: “I believe that you will take this opportunity to thrive and do your very best.”

Since then, Giàu has devoted himself fully to his studies, determined not to disappoint those who placed their trust in him, including the donors. For him, being able to continue his education is both a privilege and a source of gratitude. Every day at school is a chance to gain knowledge and to develop himself from the way he thinks, to his behaviour and problem-solving skills. “I am grateful to study in a good environment, with dedicated teachers and enthusiastic, supportive friends,” he shares.

Thanks to the scholarship, Giàu’s school fees and uniform have been paid at the start of each year, without the family having to borrow money or delay payments. He has also been able to purchase additional textbooks, notebooks, and other school supplies, as well as attend extra classes in subjects where he needs improvement. His family feels less burdened by daily living costs, which previously required careful management.

With these financial worries eased, Giàu has more space to focus on learning and exploring beyond the classroom. He actively participates in activities and workshops organised by saigonchildren for scholarship recipients, confidently expressing his opinions and connecting with his peers. These experiences have helped him hone his communication skills and broaden his perspective of the world.

Most importantly, the scholarship has strengthened Giàu’s belief in his long-standing dream of becoming a teacher, inspired by the dedication of his own educators. As he begins his final year of school, he is determined to give his all, particularly in the subjects required for the university entrance exams in pedagogy, taking one step closer to realising his dream and honouring his family’s sacrifices.

Each saigonchildren scholarship not only helps students like Giàu cover educational expenses, but also provides them with the opportunity to learn, explore, and grow in a secure environment, nurturing their dreams for the future. Become a scholarship sponsor and stand with students like Giàu today!

A helping hand lifted Đại up at just the right time
date_range2025-10-29
A helping hand lifted Đại up at just the right time
Paying It Forward: From a Scholarship Student to a Skilled Supporter
date_range2025-08-14
Paying It Forward: From a Scholarship Student to a Skilled Supporter
A 25-year-old bike driver and his dream of earning a college degree in mechatronics engineering
date_range2025-07-14
A 25-year-old bike driver and his dream of earning a college degree in mechatronics engineering
ANH CHỊ EM URGENT SUPPORT TO KEEP Đ.’S UNIVERSITY DREAM ALIVE
date_range2025-05-23
ANH CHỊ EM URGENT SUPPORT TO KEEP Đ.’S UNIVERSITY DREAM ALIVE
Two saigonchildren beneficiaries selected as U-GO Global Ambassadors 2025
date_range2025-04-23
Two saigonchildren beneficiaries selected as U-GO Global Ambassadors 2025
Journey from Tây Ninh to a pastry career in central Ho Chi Minh City
date_range2024-12-26
Journey from Tây Ninh to a pastry career in central Ho Chi Minh City
Home Visits: Discovering Small Steps Towards Hope in Education Amidst Hardship
date_range2024-09-20
Home Visits: Discovering Small Steps Towards Hope in Education Amidst Hardship
A Father’s Story: ‘For My Son’
date_range2024-06-16
A Father’s Story: ‘For My Son’
“Even though I wasn’t born like the sun, I yearn to shine and warm those around me.”
date_range2024-06-03
“Even though I wasn’t born like the sun, I yearn to shine and warm those around me.”
The first cake I make myself will certainly be for Mum!
date_range2024-05-10
The first cake I make myself will certainly be for Mum!