Mr. Praween Wirotpan emphasized the importance of prioritizing initiatives to reduce social inequality, particularly through education, with the Sharing the Dream program serving as a prime example

 This year, the program garnered significant participation from students nationwide, awarding 200 scholarships - 100 for university students and 100 for pupils - with a total value of approximately 3 billion VND. By empowering Vietnamese youth to overcome challenges and pursue their educational dreams while integrating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles, the program continues to nurture a Green Generation dedicated to the sustainable development of their communities and the country.

Building tomorrow's global citizens requires more than education alone - it demands a holistic approach that combines essential knowledge with transformative life skills. Understanding this, SCG underscores its commitment to shaping responsible citizens who have the passion for their dreams and actively contribute to sustainable social development. Mr. Praween Wirotpan, Deputy Country Director of SCG in Vietnam shared: “We are unwavering in our commitment to the ESG 4 Plus strategy, which focuses on reducing social inequality through education. By prioritizing development opportunities for Vietnam’s younger generation, we aim to build a foundation for a more inclusive and sustainable future. Through the SCG Sharing the Dream program, we inspire students to pursue their dreams by providing not only financial support but also comprehensive training in sustainable practices. This approach empowers our students to lead themselves and become the Green Generation driving Vietnam’s sustainability. With ESG-focused camps, factory tours showcasing SCG’s best practices, and specialized ESG training series, we equip our scholars with the essential knowledge and skills to succeed in their future endeavors.”

Hundreds of Sharing the Dream scholarships have been awarded to students across all regions of the country

Mr. Le Hai Long - Member of the Standing Committee, Head of the Department of Children Affairs of the Central Youth Union, and Vice Chairman of the Central Council of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union highlighted, “Each profile contains a story, a dream about the life of each student. Despite difficult circumstances, they always strive to achieve their dreams and noble ambitions. We are proud to join SCG in offering the Sharing the Dream scholarship, which not only has material significance but also great spiritual significance, supporting and encouraging students in their studies, in their journey to realize their dreams, their journey to become brave citizens in the future, demonstrating the green color and spirit of the young generation of Vietnam.”

The SCG Sharing the Dream Scholarship 2024 garnered significant attention nationwide, attracting 600 applications. Ultimately, 200 scholarships were awarded to exceptional students who demonstrated financial need, academic excellence, a passion for learning, and a deep commitment to their communities, even in the face of adversity. The award ceremonies, held at the Central Committee of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union in Hanoi and the Ho Chi Minh Youth Union Hall in Ho Chi Minh City, were attended by government leaders, SCG representatives, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union officials, and the scholarship recipients.

Among the outstanding recipients of this year’s SCG Sharing the Dream scholarship are two inspiring students whose stories highlight incredible resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

Among the outstanding individuals honored with this year’s scholarship, the story of Nguyễn Đăng Kỳ Duyên, a fourth-year student at the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City, stands out profoundly. For Duyên, sustainable development is not just a direction for businesses or organizations - it is a responsibility that belongs to each individual. “It’s about building a conscious lifestyle: reducing waste, consuming responsibly, and acting with a mindset of environmental protection and social care,” Duyên shared. Guided by these principles, she has become a shining example, inspiring her peers to embrace green living and a sense of community responsibility.

Equally touching is the story of Trần Minh Hậu, a freshman at the University of Information Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, which resonated deeply with everyone at the scholarship award ceremony. Born into a poor family in a rural area, Hậu grew up in a small, 50m² house that is now severely deteriorated. Family tragedies compounded when his father, a construction worker, suffered a workplace accident that left him unable to do heavy labor, forcing him to make a living by selling lottery tickets. Meanwhile, his mother, after a stroke, has seen her health worsen due to chronic arthritis and diabetes.

Facing immense financial pressure, Hậu once had to put his educational dreams on hold to work as a laborer at a seafood company, helping his family pay off debts and cover daily expenses. However, this year, thanks to the support of SCG’s Sharing the Dream scholarship, Hậu has had the opportunity to return to his studies. Not only does he aim to lift his family out of poverty, but he also aspires to use his knowledge and skills to contribute to the community, especially by supporting others who face hardships like those he has endured.

Their stories underline the transformative power of education and the crucial role of timely support. The SCG Sharing the Dream scholarship has not only eased the financial strain on these students but also served as a catalyst for their dreams, empowering them to continue their education and aspire to make meaningful contributions to society.

Beyond financial support, the scholarship journey is designed to offer participants a wealth of practical experiences that foster a sustainable mindset. Students are equipped with essential tools through online ESG training, workshops, guest speaker sessions, and factory visits that provide hands-on exposure. The program also features initiatives like the ASEAN ESG Ambassadors competition for scholars across ASEAN countries, enabling students to showcase their understanding and engage with peers at the regional ESG Symposium in Thailand.

These experiences collectively prepare a 'Green Generation' equipped with the skills and perspectives needed to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development. Minh Thien, a 2023 scholarship recipient and ESG Ambassador 2024, shared: “The SCG Sharing the Dream Scholarship has provided me with financial support, enabling me to focus entirely on my studies and achieve excellent results. More importantly, the ESG knowledge gained from the ESG Engagement program has given me a deeper understanding of ESG principles and sustainable development trends. This foundation has allowed my team to initiate a project that transforms organic waste into a versatile product that can be used as a cleaning solution, floor cleaner, organic fertilizer, and biological pesticide. Additionally, I am deeply honored to have had the opportunity to set foot in a new country for the first time to attend the Regional ESG Conference in Thailand as the ESG Ambassador 2024 representing Vietnam. What I have learned has strengthened my determination to contribute to society, and I hope my journey and lessons can inspire and ignite a passion for sustainable innovation among other young people.”

Through the SCG Sharing the Dream scholarship program, SCG reaffirms its unwavering commitment to nurturing Vietnam’s future leaders and reducing inequality through education. Aligned with SCG's EGS 4 Plus framework, which emphasizes holistic development through environmental responsibility, social contribution, and sound governance, the initiative empowers young minds to drive innovation and sustainability, fostering a generation that is not only equipped to lead but also dedicated to making a meaningful difference in their communities.