On 5 February 2026, a closing workshop on social inclusion of persons with disabilities was held in Can Tho, marking ten years of partnership between Norwegian Mission Alliance (NMA-V) and the Associations of Persons with Disabilities in the city. Since 2016, the project has focused on awareness raising, capacity building, social inclusion activities, vocational training, and livelihood support through the Can Tho Small Grants Fund. Over the course of implementation, these efforts contributed to a significant increase in membership, from 200 to 487 members.
According to Truc Nguyen, a beneficiary, the project helped remove feelings of inferiority: “We no longer see ourselves as people in need of help, but as people with the capacity to contribute.” The transition from a charity-based model to a rights-based approach has empowered people with disabilities to participate confidently in social life.
Luyen Hoang, Vice Chairman of the Blind Association of Can Tho City, emphasised that the Small Grants Fund has delivered meaningful initiatives, particularly for blind people, by enhancing knowledge, creating employment opportunities, and providing access to small-scale livelihood capital. As a result, local authorities and communities have developed greater recognition of the abilities and contributions of blind people.
Moreover, thanks to the project, members of the Deaf Association have produced a series of video clips in sign language covering medical examination and treatment procedures, fire prevention and firefighting, sample questions for the two-wheeled driving license test, and traffic regulations. These videos have been published on Facebook and shared with other provinces to broaden their reach and impact.
Beyond awareness-raising, one of the most remarkable achievements of the past decade has been a significant breakthrough in women’s empowerment. Women with disabilities have gained improved access to capital, enabling them to secure employment and earn stable monthly incomes of 2–3 million VND, with some reaching 6–9 million VND. With greater economic independence, they have been able to overcome dual barriers and confidently affirm their roles within their organisations and communities. This progress has not only strengthened their self-confidence and self-representation but also deepened their meaningful participation in socio-economic development.
Ten years of implementation represent more than the completion of a project cycle and is therefore not an endpoint. They mark a profound transformation in mindset, capacity, and opportunity for people with disabilities in Can Tho - a solid foundation for continued progress toward an inclusive society where no one is left behind.
