“Crafting a Digital Future: Equipping Vietnam for the Transformational Journey”
THE HANOI TIMES — Hundreds of disadvantaged Vietnamese youth have been equipped with visual arts training thanks to a year-long project funded by international firms and organizations. The initiative aims to empower young people to secure careers in the digital economy.
Truong Minh Phuc, a student at the REACH Institute, excels in 2D Graphic Design. Photo: Linh Pham/The Hanoi Times
Truong Minh Phuc, a student at the 2D Graphic Design Class K58 at REACH Institute, is one of over 200 learners who have benefited from the “Transformational Skilling for a Smarter Future in Vietnam” project. Funded by Lenovo and implemented by Plan International in partnership with the Hanoi-based REACH Institute, the project offers a transformative education.
With a US$1 million TransforME Grant Round sponsorship from the Lenovo Group, the project, which ran from April 2024 to March 2025, focused on providing training in 2D and 3D Graphic Design, Digital Marketing, and soft skills development. It aims to help disadvantaged youth, particularly women, gain short-term vocational training, find job placements, and achieve stable incomes, thereby reducing the gender gap in the information technology sector.
In a heartwarming video conversation with his mom, who is hearing-impaired, Truong Minh Phuc excitedly shared his confidence in earning an income to support himself and take care of his mother.
Phuc, who has a passion for drawing and dreams of becoming an architect or graphic designer, has received graphic design training from experienced teachers. The project has also helped him improve his communication skills, presentation abilities, and overall confidence.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue my dreams through this project. It has helped me and many other disadvantaged youth overcome our struggles and move forward in life,” Truong Minh Phuc told The Hanoi Times. He added that, in addition to the valuable lessons, the support from the project’s donors and partners helped him cover living expenses and tuition fees.
Ngo Van Quyet, a 2D Graphic Design Instructor at REACH Institute, shared that the combination of technical knowledge and soft skills has empowered students to communicate effectively and confidently apply for jobs in companies. “I believe that in today’s digital transformation era, this training course and extracurricular activities are essential for their success,” he added.
The school’s career services introduced Phuc to potential employers, and he was soon hired by NPN Imaging Company. There, he has applied his skills in various tasks, such as editing real estate photos using the Pen tool, Magic, and Mask Out techniques.
Le Tran Thai Hoa, HR Manager at NPN Imaging Company, shared her high regard for students trained at REACH in an interview with The Hanoi Times. She commended their strong technical foundation and adaptability to technology and innovation.
Nguyen Thi Luyen, a student excelling in 3D Graphic Design at REACH Institute. Photo: Linh Pham/The Hanoi Times
Nguyen Thi Luyen, a student in the 3D Graphic Design Class K59 at REACH Institute, shared her motivation for choosing this field. “I believe that any career should be open to everyone, regardless of gender,” she said, explaining why she pursued 3D Design, a field predominantly associated with men.
Upon learning about the funded project, Luyen seized the opportunity and reached out to REACH, believing it could lead to a brighter future. “My time at REACH has been transformative. I’ve gained hands-on experience in interior and exterior visualization, and the soft skills classes have improved my teamwork, confidence, and understanding of gender equality in society,” she told The Hanoi Times.
Nguyen Thi Luyen shares her graphic design expertise with peers. Photo: Linh Pham/The Hanoi Times
In 2024, Luyen’s talents were recognized by Foto Solution, a leading company in the graphic design industry. “I’m thrilled to be pursuing the career I trained for,” she shared. “This job has opened up new opportunities and increased my income.”
Nguyen Quoc Anh, 3D Team Manager at Foto Solution, praised Luyen’s skills and work ethic. “She met all the job requirements, and although she started a bit slowly, her hard work and determination have made her the best performer among her peers. She brings a high level of enthusiasm and creativity to our team,” he said.
With her improved earnings, Luyen can now cover her living expenses, medical treatment for Hepatitis B, and even support her younger brother’s tuition fees. She described her journey as “unbelievable,” reflecting on how far she has come.
Thao A Phu, a student from Yen Bai province who found success in Digital Marketing at REACH Institute. Photo: Linh Pham/The Hanoi Times
Thao A Phu, a student in the Digital Marketing Class K39 at REACH Institute, has an inspiring story. Hailing from the most underprivileged area in the northwestern province of Yen Bai, he dropped out of school due to financial struggles. Determined to pursue his dreams, he searched for free vocational training centers in Hanoi and found REACH.
Among the various options, he chose to enroll in Digital Marketing, where he learned about creating plans and launching products into the market to build brand awareness. He has applied his skills by producing short videos, such as advertisements for beauty care product sets, and engaging content to attract customers on digital platforms.
“To succeed in Digital Marketing, it’s essential to showcase your abilities and have strong determination,” Phu told The Hanoi Times about his journey. He credited the school and teachers for providing him with real-world experience and the skills needed to achieve his digital dreams. “The knowledge I’ve gained has created a brighter future for me and improved my family’s life,” he added.
Thao A Phu collaborates with his team on digital marketing plans. Photo: Linh Pham/The Hanoi Times
According to Nguyen Van Giap, General Director of Lenovo Vietnam, students like Truong Minh Phuc, Nguyen Thi Luyen, and Thao A Phu are testaments to the impact of reality-based training. He emphasized that the training program at REACH Institute, funded by Lenovo, aims to support disadvantaged youth by enhancing their digital skills and helping them thrive in the digital environment, especially young women.
“We are committed to empowering young people to build confident careers in the digital economy,” Giap told The Hanoi Times. “Lenovo aims to expand this program and partner with others to enhance growth opportunities for Vietnam’s youth, driving positive change and future success.”
Le Quynh Lan, Country Director of Plan International in Vietnam, shared her enthusiasm for the project’s success. “In just one year, we have exceeded expectations thanks to the dedication of the REACH Institute and the youth, especially young women. This project has provided vocational training, soft skills development, and challenged perceptions about women in tech,” she told The Hanoi Times.
“The success of these youth will inspire others and promote gender equality. We are grateful to the participants and Lenovo for their support in our mission to create equal opportunities in training and job creation,” Lan added.
Pham Thi Thanh Tam, Head of REACH Institute, briefed on the project’s outcome, stating that 85% of the young beneficiaries have secured employment after training. “As digital transformation is a key driver of human development, unlocking the potential of Vietnamese youth is at the heart of REACH’s mission. We have helped over 22,000 young people across Vietnam access education and build their futures,” she told The Hanoi Times.
This project aligns with Vietnam’s “Digital Higher Education” model, where universities are piloting a shift towards modernizing education. The model aims to improve cost and time efficiency, educational quality, sustainability, and global integration.
By moving materials online and reducing travel expenses, the model offers flexible and personalized learning with greater access to resources and easier interaction with professors. Vietnam’s initial pilot programs have shown promising results, but expanding the model requires investment in technology, faculty training, and student awareness. The ongoing efforts hold potential for a transformative future for Vietnam’s education system.
Participants at the closing ceremony of the “Transformational Skilling for a Smarter Future in Vietnam” project, funded by Lenovo Vietnam and implemented by Plan International Vietnam in partnership with REACH Institute.
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