RP students embarked on a meaningful International Service-Learning Project at Ho Chi Minh City.

It takes a village to raise a child.

For RP students who embarked on 10 meaningful days of service-learning in Vietnam, they were part of this village, bringing joy and help to children in need.

Service-learning in Support of Maison Chance

In March 2023, staff and students from RP School of Hospitality travelled to Maison Chance in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam as a part of an International Service-Learning Project (ISLP). This service and cultural exchange involved 150 beneficiaries, including underprivileged children and the disabled.

Maison Chance is a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) that provides housing, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities for the disadvantaged.

For the past seven years, RP students have participated in service-learning projects with Maison Chance, where they have provided aid, learnt more about Vietnamese cultural norms and developed a deeper sense of compassion.

Smiles of joy from the beneficiaries of Maison Chance in Ho Chi Minh City

Engagement and Impact that Lasts after Graduation

This year’s trip was no exception, with students preparing food, teaching and bonding with beneficiaries. Despite the differences in language, culture and lifestyles, students were able to bridge these gaps and communicate with the children of Maison Chance, practising English and sharing tips on personal grooming with them.

Through these interactions, students gained a greater awareness of the effort and perseverance needed to care for others. “I've learnt to be grateful, appreciate whatever I have and give what I can to the less-fortunate,” shared Xin Yu.

The impact is profound. Many RP students and alumni are moved by the ISLP, with some reaching out to Maison Chance on their own to return as volunteers.

Pure joy: Radiant smiles from a truly unforgettable experience between RP students and the children of Maison Chance

More Chances for Engagement through Partnerships

In order to support and nurture this philanthropic spirit, RP and Maison Chance signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in May 2023.

With this three-year MOU, more RP students will be able to experience student overseas trips, leadership development, and service-learning programmes with Maison Chance.

These students stand to gain more opportunities to encounter diverse life situations, and have a better understanding of what it means to extend a helping hand.

Representatives from RP and Maison Chance signed an MOU that opens doors to new service-learning opportunities

Making a Difference That Goes Both Ways

RP plans to continue its relationship with Maison Chance and expand the scope of the ISLP to other parts of Vietnam.

Another ISLP is planned for October 2023, where participants will travel to Village Chance, Maison Chance’s facility in the Dak Nong province, for the first time.

There, participants will engage in volunteer work that consists of the usual service activities, as well as eco-centric activities such as planting and farming with beneficiaries.

Through varied and meaningful service-learning projects, RP hopes to deepen engagement and outreach with communities. This fosters holistic education and encourages students to become thoughtful and empathetic contributors to society.

Soffiyah, another student who participated in the March ISLP, explains how it has touched her heart. "Everyone deserves to be loved. I’m thankful for the eye-opening service-learning experience," she says.