Women of Nghe An and their aspirations for advancement in the new era.

PV: Madam, in the context of Nghe An's accelerated industrialization, modernization, and integration, how do you view the role of women in the current development process?

Ms. Hoang Thi Thu Hien:In the development process of Nghe An province today, women are not only a large force but are also becoming an increasingly prominent driving force of growth and innovation. Comprising 50.8% of the province's total workforce, women in Nghe An actively contribute to many aspects of life through their creativity, perseverance, and high sense of responsibility.

In the socio-political sphere, an increasing number of women are participating in Party committees, elected bodies, and assuming managerial positions. The female cadre has matured both professionally and in character, earning the trust of Party committees, the government, and the people in entrusting them with important responsibilities. Not only do they successfully fulfill their assigned duties, but they also actively participate in contributing ideas to the development of policies and local development programs, clearly demonstrating their civic responsibility and commitment to the overall development.

In the economic sector, particularly in rural areas – where women account for over 78% of the workforce – women play a crucial role in building new rural areas and achieving sustainable poverty reduction. The annual employment rate for women exceeds 80%; approximately 20% of women own businesses, and over 50% participate in management within collective economic models. These figures demonstrate that women not only participate but are also making a significant impact on local economic development.

Notably, women today are not only skilled in production but also proactively embrace technology and the digital economy. ThroughProject “Propaganda, mobilization, and support for women in developing OCOP products in the period 2023 - 2027”Many women have improved the quality of their rattan and bamboo products, essential oils, and clean food, while boldly bringing their products to e-commerce platforms, livestreaming sales, and building personal and product brands. Entering the digital space is no longer unfamiliar but is becoming an inevitable trend, helping women expand their markets and increase the value of their products.

In the field of education, women account for 82.9% of the total workforce; 73 female Outstanding Teachers are a testament to the enduring dedication of the female intellectual workforce. In the healthcare sector, women account for 64.2% of the workforce; 19 women have been awarded the title of Outstanding Doctor – those who tirelessly care for the health of the people.

At every age and in every circumstance, women in Nghe An have made unique contributions: Young women are dynamic in their studies, research, and entrepreneurship; elderly women set shining examples in their families and communities; women from ethnic minorities, religious women, and women with disabilities all strive to overcome difficulties and rise above adversity. These contributions may be silent, but they are building crucial internal strength for the long-term development of the province.

PV: Over the past period, the Nghe An Women's Union has implemented many practical models focused on the grassroots level. From that experience, which achievements are you most proud of?

Ms. Hoang Thi Thu Hien:Looking back on the journey so far, I clearly feel that the most valuable "positive imprints" all originate from the grassroots – where officials and members directly accompany women in their lives with dedication and responsibility.

First and foremost is the maturity of the Women's Union's staff. Currently, 100% of the Chairpersons of the grassroots Women's Union have a university degree or higher; in 70% of commune-level units, the percentage of young staff under 40 years old is over 15%. The harmonious combination of experience and youthful energy has helped the Union innovate its methods of operation, be more flexible in implementing movements, and promptly grasp the needs of its members and women.

Furthermore, the "1+1" model (each member encourages one woman to join the Association) and the "3 Haves, 3 Knows" model (having a member list, a core group, and a fund; knowing the circumstances, understanding the concerns, and knowing how to provide support) have created a clear shift in approach. By the end of 2025, the entire province will have established 343 "1+1" models and 395 "3 Haves, 3 Knows" models. The value of these models lies not only in the numbers but also in the concrete, close-to-member approach: Association officials "go door to door," understanding the circumstances of each family to provide timely and appropriate support. Thanks to this, the women's movement is not just a slogan but truly spreads into daily life.

In the context of building new rural areas, the "Five Essentials, Three Cleanliness Standards" model has also created positive changes. By 2025, women will plant 95,800 new trees, build 8 km of flower-lined roads, and support nearly 16,000 clean water projects. These practical actions contribute to creating a greener, cleaner, and more civilized living environment in each village.

Another mark of profound humanity is C."Godmother" programFrom 2021 to the present, the entire province has provided sponsorship to 4,058 orphaned children in difficult circumstances, with a total committed support of over 58.9 billion VND. This result was achieved thanks to the involvement of the entire political system and the joint efforts of organizations, businesses, philanthropists, and individuals inside and outside the province. What is valuable is not only the material support, but also the spiritual protection, giving the children a foundation to confidently grow up. These results show that the women's movement in Nghe An is spreading in depth, contributing to warming up community life.

PV: Besides the positive aspects, women in rural, mountainous, or special areas still face many obstacles. So, what solutions has the Association implemented to further motivate women to strive for success?

Ms. Hoang Thi Thu Hien:Through our work, we have identified two major challenges: the lack of truly sustainable livelihoods and limited access to information, especially in the face of rapid changes in socio-economic life.

Based on this reality, the Women's Union at all levels determined that to further motivate women, it was essential to first create a stable economic foundation. Therefore, supporting economic development was chosen as the central focus. In 2025 alone, the province helped 1,010 households with women escape poverty; supported the establishment of 4 cooperatives and 20 cooperative groups managed by women; and connected 42 startup ideas to access nearly 2 billion VND in capital. Beyond providing resources, the Union also focused on training management skills and linking product consumption, helping women gradually gain confidence in managing production models and become more proactive in developing their livelihoods.

Besides economic solutions, we recognize that the impetus for progress also comes from improved living conditions and social security. During the year, the Women's Union at all levels implemented 412 "5 No's, 3 Cleanliness" projects; and supported nearly 16,000 clean water projects with a total value of nearly 14 billion VND. Through the "Accompanying Women in Border Areas" program, many livelihood models in particularly difficult border communes have been maintained and expanded, contributing to alleviating daily hardships and creating more confidence for women to develop their family economies.

In this new context, another barrier has emerged: the risk of high-tech online fraud. Women in rural and mountainous areas are often vulnerable to sophisticated scams. Therefore, the Association has issued a "6 Don'ts" rule to help women proactively prevent risks. We believe that equipping women with self-protection skills in the online environment is not only a preventative measure but also a step towards enhancing their adaptability in the digital age.

PV: Madam, the trend of digital transformation and integration is demanding a major shift in mindset. How do you assess the aspirations of the current generation of young women in Nghe An?

Ms. Hoang Thi Thu Hien:I have great faith in the young generation of women in our province. You are growing up in an environment full of opportunities but also full of challenges, where knowledge and creativity play a decisive role. This very context is clearly shaping the image of the modern woman of Nghe An: knowledgeable, healthy, socially responsible, and aspiring to contribute.

This belief stems not only from feelings but is also proven through the practical implementation of the movement. In the "Building the Modern Nghe An Woman" program, thousands of communication and branch activities have been organized, attracting over 372,000 cadres, members, and women participants. This is not just a statistic, but a process of nurturing, training, and equipping young women with the confidence and skills to adapt to the new demands of society.

In addition, the Association pays special attention to supporting startup activities. In 2025, the Association will continue to support 6 projects participating in the "Expanded Nghe An Creative Startup Talent Search" competition, creating more opportunities for women's ideas to be tested and proven.

Building upon that foundation, young women today are increasingly adept at embracing the green economy and digital economy. Many not only inherit traditional production models but also boldly innovate and apply technology to enhance product value and expand markets. Most valuable is their spirit of daring to think, daring to act, and proactively seeking opportunities for development in the new context – a clear manifestation of the aspirations of Nghe An women in the era of integration.

PV: On the occasion of International Women's Day, March 8th, what message would you like to convey to the millions of women who are silently contributing to the development of our province?

Ms. Hoang Thi Thu Hien:I would like to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation to the mothers, sisters, and young women of Nghe An. Every woman, regardless of her position – whether a homemaker, an office worker, or a leader in any field – is making a significant contribution to the development of our homeland.

I hope that every woman will always be confident in her own worth, proud of the resilient and compassionate traditions of Nghe An women, and at the same time, constantly learn and train to improve herself and adapt to the new demands of the times.

We are entering a new phase of development as Nghe An strives to become the economic and cultural center of the North Central region, in accordance with Resolution 39 of the Politburo. This presents both opportunities and challenges, requiring the joint efforts of the entire society, with women playing a crucial role.

I believe that, with their intelligence, courage, and compassionate hearts, the women of Nghe An will continue to affirm their role, building happy and progressive families while making positive contributions to the sustainable development of the province.

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I believe that, with their intelligence, courage, and compassionate hearts, the women of Nghe An will continue to affirm their role, building happy and progressive families while making positive contributions to the sustainable development of the province.

Ms. Hoang Thi Thu Hien – Member of the Provincial Party Committee, President of the Nghe An Provincial Women's Union

On the occasion of International Women's Day, March 8th, we wish all mothers, sisters, and daughters good health, confidence, radiance, and abundant happiness on this special day!

Interviewer: Thank you for the conversation!