On the morning of August 9, 2026, Hanoi University of Civil Engineering (HUCE), in collaboration with The Asia Foundation and Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST), successfully held the Closing Ceremony of the STEM Scholarship Program for the 2025-2026 academic year. The ceremony was an opportunity to acknowledge the academic efforts and reflect on the impressive journey of growth of female students in the Engineering and Technology fields.

The event was attended by Prof. Dr. Nguyen Hoang Giang - Vice Rector of Hanoi University of Civil Engineering; and Mr. Tran Quang Khai - Deputy Head of Student Affairs Department, Hanoi University of Science and Technology.

Ms. Erin Steinhauer - Head Representative of the Asia Foundation in Vietnam; representatives from Hanoi University of Science and Technology; representatives from partner businesses; and a large number of female students from various generations who received STEM scholarships.

A comprehensive launching pad for women in STEM fields.

With support from major sponsors such as Boeing and the Intuitive Foundation, the Asia Foundation's STEM Scholarship Program aims to empower underprivileged but academically outstanding female students to pursue their career aspirations. Beyond financial support, the program places special emphasis on holistic development activities such as soft skills training, career guidance, company visits, and alumni networking.

In his opening remarks, Professor Nguyen Hoang Giang, Vice Rector of Hanoi University of Civil Engineering, expressed his appreciation for the contributions of the Asia Foundation. Professor Nguyen Hoang Giang emphasized that the maturity of today's students is not only reflected in their professional knowledge but also in their core life skills. "The skills that the Asia Foundation has instilled in them are incredibly important tools for their future success. Their confidence today is clearly demonstrated after a period of participation in and community building," Professor Nguyen Hoang Giang shared. He also provided further information about the current government policy of valuing STEM human resources, opening up incredibly broad job opportunities for graduates.

Professor Dr. Nguyen Hoang Giang - Vice Rector, delivered a speech at the Closing Ceremony.

The journey to break free from your comfort zone.

Representing the Asia Foundation, Ms. Erin Steinhauer delivered a deeply inspiring speech to the young people. She praised the efforts of the female students in continuously improving not only their IQ (intelligence quotient) but also their EQ (emotional intelligence) – a key factor in determining success in the modern workplace. Ms. Erin shared: "What truly surprised and impressed me was the transformation of these girls. From shy, hesitant girls entering the room on the first day, they now stand before a crowd, confidently sharing and expressing their contributions. That is why we believe this program is truly important."

Ms. Erin Steinhauer, Head of the Asia Foundation's Representative Office in Vietnam, delivered a speech at the Closing Ceremony.

The clearest evidence of this change was the Capstone Showcase presentation by five student groups. The projects not only demonstrated professional competence but also showcased the sharp teamwork, critical thinking, and communication skills they had honed.

Representatives from the Asia Foundation, Hanoi University of Civil Engineering, and Hanoi University of Science and Technology presented certificates, emblems, and flowers to congratulate the female students who received the scholarships.

Representing the scholarship recipients, Nguyen Thuy Hien shared her heartfelt thoughts about the past year: "Thanks to the Asia Foundation, we had the opportunity to meet like-minded friends, learn from先輩s (senior students), and participate in meaningful self-development programs. Through each activity, we learned how to listen, how to work in teams, and most importantly, how to dare to step out of our comfort zones." Thuy Hien also emphasized the immense value of the program's spirit of support, motivation, and networking opportunities for the STEM female student community.

Student Nguyen Thuy Hien - representing the female students who received scholarships - shared her thoughts at the Closing Ceremony.

Concluding the closing ceremony, certificates and commemorative plaques were presented to the female students. The knowledge, skills, and relationships built through the program will undoubtedly serve as a solid foundation, accompanying them on their future career paths in engineering, and continuing to inspire many generations of female students to confidently pursue STEM fields.

Đăng Đươc - Phòng TT&TS