Preferential STEM Credit - A Starting Point for Knowledge and Creativity

On September 5, 2025, in harmony with the vibrant atmosphere of the new school year across the country, VBSP Hue Provincial Brach officially launched the STEM Preferential Credit Program – a new policy under Decision No. 29/2025/QD-TTg dated August 28, 2025, issued by the Prime Minister. This marks an important milestone, not only in terms of financial support but also as a source of encouragement for students, postgraduates, and doctoral candidates pursuing studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

VBSP Phu Loc Transaction Office disbursed the first loan under Decision No. 29/2025/QD-TTg dated August 28, 2025, issued by the Prime Minister

On the very first day of the new academic year, VBSP Phu Loc Transaction Office became one of the first units to complete loan procedures and disburse funds to its initial customers. With the close coordination of local authorities, mass organizations, and Savings and Credit Group leaders, procedures were handled accurately, ensuring that preferential credit promptly reached parents and students.

On the morning of September 5, the Phu Loc Transaction Office disbursed loans under the STEM Preferential Credit Program to two families with a total amount of VND 152.35 million (≈ USD 6,094), opening opportunities for students to continue their studies right from the beginning of the school year. This initiative is not only about financial support but also a strong affirmation that knowledge, creativity, and the dreams of the young generation are always valued and supported by the State.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Thuong’s family (in Chan May Commune, Lang Co) once faced the difficult decision of asking her son to defer his studies due to financial hardship. Thanks to the STEM Preferential Credit Program, she was able to borrow VND 86 million (≈ USD 3,440) for her son, Ha Xuan Dinh – a third-year student at Da Nang University of Architecture – to cover tuition fees and living expenses. “This loan not only helps my son continue his education but also strengthens our family’s faith in the care of the Party, the Government, and VBSP. We are truly grateful for this support”, Ms. Thuong shared. Her story is a vivid testament to the humanistic values of the program, where each loan represents an opportunity and every support serves as a solid stepping stone for the pursuit of knowledge.

According to regulations, the loan covers the full tuition fees confirmed by the school (after deducting scholarships or other financial aid) and up to VND 5 million (≈ USD 200) per month for living and study expenses. The interest rate is set at 4.8% per annum. During the study period, borrowers are not required to pay principal or interest; repayment only begins 12 months after graduation, with installments spread over the repayment term.

Mr. Nguyen Hoang Anh Tuan, Deputy Director of VBSP Hue City Branch, emphasized: “Although this is a new program, the unit has made thorough preparations in terms of funding and operational procedures. The total demand for loans in the area has reached USD 151,680. In September 2025, we expect to disburse over USD 82,440 to 27 customers. The branch is committed to accompanying and providing maximum support to ensure that preferential loans reach the right beneficiaries in a timely manner”.

The STEM Credit Program is not merely a financial assistance package. It represents the Government’s strategic investment in the young generation - future engineers, scientists, and technology experts who will contribute to accelerating the country’s progress in the digital era. Each preferential loan carries both responsibility and hope: easing the burden on parents, creating opportunities for students, and nurturing faith in a knowledge-driven future.

The school opening day of September 5, 2025, thus became a truly special day - a day when a new policy came to life, when many families felt relief from tuition concerns, and when students across Hue City gained new strength to confidently embark on their journey of learning and creativity.

Duc Thanh