Plan Korea & Hyosung Improve Education & Hygiene for Vietnamese Children

A collaborative effort between Plan International Korea and the Hyosung Group has concluded a successful project aimed at improving educational and sanitary conditions for children in the Quang Ngai province of central Vietnam. The project focused on a historically vulnerable region, formerly known as Kon Tum province, and culminated in a completion ceremony on January 29th, attended by approximately 200 individuals including Hyosung representatives and local government officials.

Addressing Critical Needs

Prior to the intervention, 190 students at the Mang Den boarding school relied on a makeshift, unhygienic kitchen constructed from wood. This presented significant challenges, including a lack of adequate cooking tools and tableware, forcing teachers to borrow supplies from nearby villages and students to bring their own eating utensils. The situation also posed a fire hazard.

Did You Know? The project directly benefited 190 students at the Mang Den boarding school by providing a modern kitchen and dining facility.

To address these issues, Plan International Korea and Hyosung constructed a modern kitchen and dining hall, fully equipped with necessary kitchen equipment. This ensures students have access to safe, hygienic spaces and balanced meals.

A Unique Funding Model

The initiative was funded through a “matching grant” program. 150 Hyosung employees voluntarily contributed a portion of their salaries, and the company matched those contributions, amplifying the impact of individual donations. Plan International Korea leveraged its existing expertise in the region, gained since 2008, to ensure the funds were allocated effectively.

Long-Term Investment in Quang Ngai Province

This project represents an eight-year commitment, beginning in 2018, to the Quang Ngai province. Over this period, Plan International Korea and Hyosung have supported over ten schools through classroom expansions, library construction, dormitory building, and improvements to water and sanitation facilities. To date, a total of 1672 children have benefited from these improvements.

Expert Insight: The success of this project highlights the potential of corporate-NGO partnerships to address critical infrastructure gaps in underserved communities, directly impacting the health and well-being of children. The matching grant model demonstrates a powerful way to engage employees and maximize philanthropic impact.

Quang Ngai province, once characterized by a 40% poverty rate, has seen a significant reduction in poverty due to sustained efforts from partners like Plan International Korea and Hyosung.

Looking Ahead

Plan International Korea intends to continue supporting the Quang Ngai province through 2026, aiming to foster self-sufficiency within the community. The organization also plans to expand this partnership model with other global companies to promote sustainable social contributions. A possible next step could involve expanding the program to include vocational training for older students.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the primary goal of this project?

The primary goal was to improve the educational and sanitary conditions for children in the Quang Ngai province of Vietnam, specifically by providing a safe and hygienic kitchen and dining facility at the Mang Den boarding school.

How was the project funded?

The project was funded through a “matching grant” program where 150 Hyosung employees contributed a portion of their salaries, and the Hyosung Group matched those contributions.

How many children have benefited from the broader, eight-year initiative?

A total of 1672 children have benefited from the improvements to educational facilities, including classroom expansions, library construction, and dormitory building, over the past eight years.

How can collaborative partnerships between organizations and corporations best contribute to long-term community development?