From the village to the lecture hall to learn "Code"

When Xúc received her acceptance letter and went to Da Nang to study programming, the whole village was very surprised. Relatives and neighbors couldn't understand why the young girl chose a field that seemed to be reserved for boys, instead of the more familiar choices for girls like early childhood education or working as a factory worker.

Xúc is a child sponsored by Plan International Vietnam in Quang Tri . Her father passed away when she was only 13 years old. Since then, she has gradually become accustomed to the role of the eldest sister – helping her mother manage household chores and taking care of her three younger siblings. During her high school years, Xúc and her sister participated in the Club for Change Leaders (CoC). The club's activities, the opportunities to speak up, and the discussions about girls' rights helped her become stronger and more confident in her life choices.

"I am strongly inspired by women who work in science and programming," Xúc shared.

The laptop and computer were provided by Plan International Vietnam to support my studies. (Photo: Plan International Vietnam)

Through the 'Girls in Tech' project supported locally by Plan International Vietnam, Xúc was introduced to a scholarship in Programming, passed the selection process, and is currently studying in Da Nang. Each month, she receives a scholarship of 1,000,000 VND; 840,000 VND is allocated for food expenses in the dormitory.

"Sometimes I skip breakfast before class, but I think I can concentrate better on my studies when my stomach isn't too full," she said honestly—then she smiled, as if it were just a small effort on a long journey ahead.

Xúc's choice once caused concern among her family and the community. But she firmly stated, "This is my dream and the path I've chosen, so I won't give up."

After joining the Parents' Club for 18-Year-Olds and participating in activities to support her child, Xuc's mother gradually overcame her initial anxieties. Her family also received support in developing their livelihood through goat and pig farming. On the first day Xuc left home for university, her mother gave her 1,300,000 dong from selling the goats and urged her to study hard and excel.

Xúc and his mother. (Photo: Plan International Vietnam)

Alongside her studies, the 'Girls in Tech' project also connected Xúc with IT experts, providing resources and career guidance to help her become more confident on her chosen path. Now, the once petite girl is planning to build a social media channel to share about programming and STEM education for girls – a way for her to continue spreading the inspiration she once received.

For Plan International, empowering girls is not just about opening up educational opportunities, but also about supporting them to have the confidence to make their own choices and the determination to pursue their dreams.

Because when a girl dares to walk a new path, not only does her future change, but the entire community will begin to transform as well.