Creating new job opportunities for the blind

The activity is part of a series of practical events to celebrate the 95th anniversary of Vietnamese Women's Day (October 20, 1930 - October 20, 2025), sponsored by the Abilis Organization - Finland.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the program, Ms. Chu Thi Thu Ha - Chief of Office, Head of Project Management Board of Hanoi Blind Association emphasized: "The project "Hair washing - New job opportunities for the blind" is not just a simple vocational course, but the first step in the journey to open up new livelihood opportunities, helping the blind have more suitable career options, confidently integrate and assert themselves in society".

Ms. Chu Thi Thu Ha - Chief of Office, Head of Project Management Board of Hanoi Blind Association shared information about the project. Photo: Mai Hoa

The project is for 20 blind students selected from the Association's facilities in the city. During the 50 days of vocational training, students will be trained in hair washing by the Vocational Education Center of the Hanoi Blind Association in collaboration with the Son Cuoc Traditional Medicine Development and Cooperation Training Center, along with a number of reputable spas. Students will be guided in theory, practice, review and test their skills. The curriculum is compiled to suit the accessibility of the blind, ensuring both expertise and occupational safety. Upon completion, students will be granted a vocational certificate and will be introduced to jobs at spas, hair salons or practice facilities of the Association.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Hang - Program Assistant, representative of Abilis Foundation in Vietnam speaking. Photo: Khanh Linh

Abilis Foundation representative, Ms. Nguyen Thi Hang, said that over the years, Abilis has accompanied organizations of people with disabilities in Vietnam in developing capacity and creating livelihoods: “We highly appreciate the proactive and creative spirit of the Hanoi Blind Association. The choice of the “health-preserving hair washing” model shows a flexible approach, suitable to market trends and the characteristics of the visually impaired. Abilis believes that today’s students will become the core to spread confidence and determination to the community.”

Leaders of the Hanoi Blind Association presented flowers to congratulate delegates participating in the project. Photo: Khanh Linh

Speaking to express his gratitude to the delegates and sponsors, Mr. Hoang Manh Cuong - Vice President of the Hanoi Blind Association expressed his deep gratitude to the Abilis Organization - Finland, agencies, units and individuals who have always accompanied the Association in supporting the visually impaired. He affirmed: "The Hanoi Blind Association does not only stop at traditional occupations such as massage, but is proactively seeking new career models that are suitable to the trends and needs of society. This project is a step forward in that strategy, opening up a practical and humane direction for the visually impaired members of the Capital."

According to Mr. Cuong, after this pilot course, the Association will evaluate the results, professional efficiency and market demand to develop a plan to replicate the model. Along with that, the Association will also strengthen coordination with businesses and health care facilities to support employment for students.

Source: https://hanoimoi.vn/tao-co-hoi-viec-lam-moi-cho-nguoi-khiem-thi-719985.html