On the 20th anniversary of AeA’s operations in Vietnam, held in Hanoi on December 20, Nguyen Ngoc Hung, Vice President of the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations (VUFO), awarded a certificate of merit from the VUFO Presidium to recognize the organization’s positive contributions in supporting educational development in Vietnam from 2003 to 2023.

AeA has been operating in Vietnam since 2003 to develop sustainable educational projects, thereby improving the quality of life for disadvantaged children and youth of ethnic minorities. AeA’s projects cover childcare and education, improving educational access and quality, livelihood education, vocational training, and business idea support.

Nguyen Vu Linh introduces his products at AeA’s 20th Anniversary of operations in Vietnam (Photo: Dinh Hoa).

Nguyen Vu Linh (30 years old, lives in Thoi Son commune, Tinh Bien district, An Giang province), the owner of a workshop that produces souvenirs from palm leaves, wood, and bamboo toothpicks, said: “I was introduced to AeA by the Center for Youth startups in An Giang. Not only did they support me with money to invest in my workshop, but they also helped me introduce my products to potential customers.”

Linh established his workshop in 2019 when he could only afford a computer and a mini laser carving machine. With the money he earned from selling products, Linh gradually invested in more equipment. In 2023, he received the support of VND 30 million from AeA, which he spent on a new dryer. The new machine helps dry materials faster and more effectively, resulting in a higher quantity and better quality of products.

AeA also helped him in finding customers. His products are displayed at AeA events held in many provinces such as Hanoi and Lao Cai. Linh’s souvenirs are now sold to customers across the country, earning a profit of about VND 20 – 30 million per month. “Thanks to AeA’s support, I have a stable source of income to take care of my family. I also provide free vocational training to a group of local young people, helping them have jobs and income to improve their quality of life,” said Linh.

Nguyen Ngoc Hung, Vice President of VUFO (right), awarded the certificate of merit from the VUFO Presidium to the representative of AeA (Photo: Dinh Hoa).

At the celebration, Nguyen Ngoc Hung, Vice President of the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations, said that AeA is a French organization with persistent activities in Vietnam, mainly in the field of education. This is always one of the priorities of the government and the people of Vietnam. AeA’s contributions are demonstrated through the lives that have been improved and the educational opportunities that have been given.

During its operation, AeA has built a positive cooperative relationship with local authorities. The organization’s projects are highly appreciated by Vietnamese beneficiaries and partners. Through that, AeA contributes to promoting people-to-people relations between Vietnam and France.

Nguyen Thi Tu, Director of AeA in Vietnam, said that with the motto “Changing the world through education,” AeA strives to support disadvantaged children and young people by providing educational and job opportunities, thereby improving their lives. AeA wishes to continue to receive the companionship and support of local authorities and partners to further promote its upcoming projects.

Valerie Mai
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