The appeal of a livable city

When mentioning Ho Chi Minh City, people often immediately think of a dynamic economic center and the engine of national growth. Alongside this image, a distinctive characteristic has become deeply ingrained in the city's life and a defining value – a city of compassion and solidarity. Over the years, this spirit of compassion has continued to be a connecting thread within the community of the youngest and most populous city in the country.

Observing the Party Congresses at the ward, commune, and special zone levels in Ho Chi Minh City, it's easy to see that many localities have made social welfare a central focus, alongside economic development. The targets set encompass everything from caring for war veterans, policy beneficiary families, and vulnerable groups; to creating sustainable livelihoods for workers and laborers, and providing career support for young people…

These are not just targets on paper, but have become concrete actions of the entire political system from the city to the grassroots. These include scholarships, the renovation of dilapidated houses, and preferential loans to help disadvantaged people start businesses and develop their economy.

At a higher level, the Ho Chi Minh City Party Congress for the 2025-2030 term has also set practical targets to improve people's lives and ensure they benefit from development. Specifically, the city aims to achieve the following by 2030: average per capita GRDP of approximately 14,000-15,000 USD; 35.1 hospital beds per 10,000 people, 21 doctors per 10,000 people, and 35 nurses per 10,000 people; and 100% of city residents receiving at least one health check-up per year. Furthermore, by 2030, 40% of kindergartens, 45% of primary schools, 50% of junior high schools, and 38.5% of high schools will meet national standards. The goal is to eliminate poverty according to the city's poverty standards by 2030.

A review of the indicators shows that social welfare work is not simply about reducing economic poverty, but also includes conditions related to healthcare, education , housing, and cultural enjoyment. This comprehensive approach ensures that social welfare does not stop at temporary assistance, but aims to sustainably improve the quality of life. This care has strengthened the people's trust, transforming political resolutions into concrete and tangible actions.

Social welfare is not just a social policy, but also a foundation for maintaining stability and consensus, enabling the city to develop faster and more sustainably. In a place with one of the highest urbanization rates in the country, where the gap between rich and poor easily creates social voids, compassion and solidarity are the "vaccine" that helps the community become more cohesive.

Furthermore, a leading economic engine, a driving force for national growth, and a dynamic city are not only measured by their GRDP growth rate, but also by the evidence of their civility, humanity, and compassion. Ho Chi Minh City's focus on social welfare, ensuring that all citizens have opportunities for development and that no one is left behind, is precisely how it builds the reputation and attractiveness of a livable city.

This is a political responsibility, as well as a tradition, a moral principle, and the identity of Ho Chi Minh City. When the value of compassion and solidarity continues to be strongly promoted, the city will be both a dynamic economic center and a humane urban area, where every citizen feels a sense of sharing and opportunities for advancement.

NGO BINH

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/suc-hap-dan-cua-mot-do-thi-dang-song-post812030.html