Around the world, children with disabilities are the most likely to be out of school. Stigma, lack of accessibility and inadequate learning facilities are persistent barriers that prevent them from enjoying quality education and learning. But like any other child, children with disabilities have hopes, aspirations and dreams. They need educational opportunities to grow and develop to the fullest. Access to quality education and learning not only gives them the chance to contribute fully to society, but also empowers them to become independent in their life.

The young H-Thao is one of the many girls born with a disability in Vietnam. Since early childhood, she has used crutches to walk. Both her parents make a living by farming, but they often struggled financially to provide for her specific needs. Yet, she did not let these circumstances stand in the way of what she wanted to achieve in life: she knew education could help carve her path in the world. Aware of her family’s financial difficulties and the responsibility her parents should for caregiving, she did not want to burden them and decided to attend school without asking for financial help.

By dint of perseverance, she was admitted to university and worked part-time to support herself. But money worries were constantly in the back of her mind, causing stress and anxiety. Through the Good Shepherd educational program, she received special support and a scholarship, which considerably relieved the strains she was facing financially:

“It felt like a tremendous weight was lifted off my shoulders, allowing me to focus on my studies with complete peace of mind.”