Vietnamese ethnic minority youths urged to remain resilient and ambitious
The development of ethnic and mountainous areas is a strategic, long-term task of special importance to sustainable development of the great national unity bloc.
THE HANOI TIMES — Vietnamese ethnic minority students and youths were urged to remain proud, resilient and ambitious as they pursue their dreams and contribute to the nation’s future.
Deputy Prime Minister Mai Van Chinh made the call while addressing the 2025 commendation ceremony for 150 exemplary students representing 53 ethnic groups nationwide, held in Hanoi on December 27.
He encouraged young people to continue striving in their studies, preserve their ethnic traditions and work toward becoming capable citizens who can contribute to their villages, communities and the country.
Deputy Prime Minister Mai Van Chinh (center) poses with outstanding ethnic minority students and youth 2025. Photos: VNA
The deputy prime minister stressed that support policies for ethnic minorities must be implemented effectively and transparently, guided by the principle of “six clears”, including clear beneficiaries, clear tasks, clear timelines, clear responsibilities, clear results and clear authority.
He said this approach is essential to ensuring that efforts for ethnic minority communities deliver practical outcomes and create lasting opportunities for younger generations.
Speaking at the ceremony, Sin Duc Manh, a student of Pa Then, one of Vietnam’s smallest ethnic groups, expressed his belief in the power of learning and his desire to contribute to his people’s progress.
Sin Duc Manh, a Pa Then student (center in the first line), one of Vietnam’s smallest ethnic groups, receives certificates of merit.
"Together, we will light the torch of knowledge and determination, embodying the spirit of Vietnam’s ethnic minority youth: resilient, ambitious and full of dreams," said Manh.
Deputy Prime Minister Chinh praised their achievements and urged them to continue striving for excellence, saying the ceremony reflects the State’s unwavering commitment to nurturing talent among ethnic minorities.
He stressed the Party’s consistent policies for ethnic communities, including Resolution No. 71 of the Politburo on breakthroughs in education and training, tuition exemptions and learning support programs that have transformed the lives of thousands of ethnic students.
Among them, Lo Chinh Huong, a first-year cadet at the Border Guard Academy, said: “We are very happy, honored and proud. This event motivates us to strive harder and serve our country.”
He vowed to work hard toward becoming a Border Guard officer.
Deputy Prime Minister Mai Van Chinh and Minister of Ethnic and Religious Affairs Dao Ngoc Dung present certificates of merit to the honorees.
Similarly, Lo Thi Kieu Vy, an 11th-grade student from Lai Chau’s Ethnic Boarding High School, spoke of her dream to become a kindergarten teacher and return to teach in her hometown.
“I come from Nam Cuoi Commune, where schools still lack teachers. This ceremony inspires me to study harder and make that dream come true,” said Vy.
The 2025 commendation marked the 12th year of this annual event, which has so far honored over 2,000 outstanding ethnic minority students and youths nationwide.
Through its thoughtful preparation and heartfelt execution, the ceremony serves as a meaningful meeting place to recognize and nurture young ethnic talents.
Outstanding ethnic minority students and youth of 2025 on December 27 offered incense at the Temple of Literature in Hanoi.
On December 26, General Secretary To Lam met 150 outstanding honorees, praising their perseverance and academic achievements and reaffirming the Party’s strong commitment to developing human resources in ethnic and mountainous areas.
He said ethnic minority communities have made enduring contributions throughout Vietnam’s revolutionary history and expressed confidence that more intellectuals, officials, entrepreneurs, scientists, artists, athletes and soldiers will emerge from remote areas to help build a prosperous and developed nation.
To strengthen the role of ethnic minority youth in the new development phase, he urged the Ministry of Ethnic and Religious Affairs to refine policies for ethnic minority students and youths and establish long-term support for those already recognized.
He also encouraged young people to sustain their passion for learning, enhance skills, master science, technology and digital transformation and live with ideals, ambition and responsibility toward their families, communities and the country.
