Warmth from the friendship house

Throughout their journey of overcoming difficulties, underprivileged students at An Giang University have always received support from youth organizations and associations. The "Friendship House" donation program is a testament to this spirit of mutual support and camaraderie among friends.

Since implementing the model, at the beginning of each academic year, the Youth Union of An Giang University has launched a fundraising campaign to support the construction of "friendship houses" for union members in difficult circumstances, with a support level of 50 million VND per house. Since its launch, the Youth Union has supported more than 30 "friendship houses" for union members and students. "Before 2022, the Youth Union supported each 'friendship house' with a budget of 30 million VND. From 2022 to the present, this has increased to 50 million VND," said Mr. Tran Trung Quoc, Secretary of the Youth Union of An Giang University.

The An Giang University delegation handed over a "friendship house" to Le Thi Thuy Linh (fourth from the right). Photo: Phuong Lan

For a truly supportive home to be the right person at the right time, the selection process is rigorous and impartial. According to Le Quoc Khanh, President of the Vietnam Student Association at An Giang University, the first criterion is that the student must be from a disadvantaged background, belonging to a poor or near-poor household, or have special confirmation from the local authorities. A prerequisite is that the current house is severely dilapidated, leaking, or the student has absolutely no stable accommodation.

The "Friendship House" is not only for poor students but also for those who are poor but have the will to succeed. Therefore, the Youth Union and Student Association of An Giang University set requirements for academic performance and conduct, requiring students to achieve at least a "good" grade. Students must be active participants in Youth Union and Student Association movements, lead healthy lifestyles, and abide by the law and university regulations. These standards have transformed the house into a reward for the students' perseverance.

Visiting the new home of Le Thi Thuy Linh, a final-year student majoring in primary education at the Faculty of Education, An Giang University, in Ba Chuc commune, we felt the value of sharing. Previously, Linh and her mother lived in a dilapidated house that leaked whenever it rained, with a damp floor and difficult living conditions. Orphaned at the age of 5, Linh grew up under the tireless care of her ailing mother. Although the family was classified as near-poor, Linh's mother still managed to save money over the past 2-3 years when her work became more stable. Linh studied while saving from various support programs to help her mother. "When we received the decision to grant her a 'friendship house,' my mother finally had the courage to build a new house," Linh said emotionally.

Initially, Linh's family only intended to repair the foundation and tin walls, but when they dismantled them, they found that the pillars and beams inside had rotted. Faced with this situation, and with encouragement from the school, the family decided to build a completely new house. To complete their current spacious home, Linh's mother borrowed more money, turning her worries into immeasurable joy at having a sturdy place to shelter Linh from the rain and sun, allowing her to confidently pursue her teaching career.

Having just received her "Friendship House" in 2026, Trinh Thi Bich Ngoc, a Marketing student at the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, An Giang University, couldn't hide her joy, mixed with a touch of emotion. Ngoc's family fell into dire straits when her father was injured in an accident and became unable to work. Despite the hardship, Ngoc didn't give up but instead focused on her studies to overcome the difficulties.

Currently, Ngoc works part-time, earning 4-5 million VND per month, which helps her cover her studies and support her family. Working in a dynamic environment, this marketing student always cherishes her dream: "I want to become a skilled salesperson with a high income to help my family escape poverty sustainably."

Ngoc's family home, built over 15 years ago, is now dilapidated and in serious disrepair. To realize their dream of a decent home, Ngoc's family plans to borrow an additional 80-90 million VND from the bank, combined with support from the "Friendship House" fund. Ngoc shared that the "Friendship House" is a motivation for her to study better and have a stable career in the future.

These "friendship homes" not only beautify the villages but also sow seeds of gratitude and a will to strive for success in the hearts of the students. Seeing Linh's radiant smile in her new home, or Ngoc's determined eyes as she talks about the future, we believe that even if the road ahead is challenging, with faith and willpower, they will overcome obstacles and live up to the blessings they have received.

PHUONG LAN

Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/am-ap-tu-can-nha-tinh-ban-a483237.html