New library project launched for Tuyen Quang students

A new library, funded by the Hope Foundation and several sponsors, will support the research and learning needs of nearly 400 students at Tan Trao Secondary School in Son Duong District in northern Tuyen Quang Province.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the project was held on May 20, with contributions from the Hope Foundation, the Hanoi Club of Vietnamese Alumni in the U.S. (VUSAC), Vietjet Air, and Rotary Vietnam Club.

Nguyen Thi Le Thao, Principal of Tan Trao Secondary School, noted that the 30-year-old school currently has only a small room used for book storage. The limited collection, which mainly consists of outdated textbooks, reference materials, and teacher contributions, does not adequately meet students’ learning and research needs. Space constraints also restrict access to the library.

Designed by Vietnam Consulting and Construction Corporation, the new library will cover nearly 200 square meters and feature large glass windows to maximize natural light, creating an open and inviting space to encourage reading and self-study. In addition to the library, sponsors will provide electronic library equipment and renovate existing classrooms. The total project cost exceeds VND1.7 billion, with over VND1.5 billion provided by sponsors and the remainder from local contributions.

Nguyen Hai Giang, Vice President of the Vietnam-USA Society overseeing VUSAC, emphasized the project’s significance as Vietnam and the U.S. approach the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations (July 12, 1995–July 12, 2025). Implemented in a region symbolizing early Vietnam-U.S. ties from 80 years ago, the initiative aims to strengthen educational cooperation and preserve the historical connection between the two countries.

Duong Hoai Nam, Director of Vietjet Air’s Northern Region Office, expressed hopes that the library would open by the next school year, providing students in this cradle of the revolution with improved learning opportunities. “A well-equipped library with books, tools, and internet access will greatly support education and inspire self-learning,” he said.

During the event, the Hope Foundation, in partnership with FPT Online and VnExpress, also broke ground on the Dong Tau school site, part of Luong Thien Kindergarten in Son Duong District. The project includes a classroom, kitchen, and playground for preschool children. The total cost exceeds VND900 million, with nearly VND780 million coming from the Hope Foundation and a day’s salary donated by staff from FPT Online and VnExpress. The remaining funds come from local sources.

Luu Van Luong, Chairman of Luong Thien Commune People’s Committee, explained that the Dong Tau school, built in 2012, has deteriorated significantly, with many facilities no longer meeting quality standards. This has impacted preschool education and care. “Investment in a new, safe, and modern classroom will encourage teachers and parents and lay a foundation for students to learn in a better environment, supporting their physical and mental development,” he said.

These educational projects in Son Duong are part of the Hope Foundation’s “School of Sunshine” program, launched in 2018. Previously, the foundation and its sponsors built two new school sites and 17 school sanitation facilities in Yen Son District, Tuyen Quang Province.

To date, the program has completed over 370 new or renovated school sites across provinces including Ha Giang, Lao Cai, Son La, Dien Bien, Tuyen Quang, Lang Son, Quang Binh, Quang Nam, and Binh Phuoc, improving learning conditions for tens of thousands of students and teachers.

Readers can support the program here.

Quynh Anh