SCDI presents to readers the outstanding news of July 2026

Strengthening the foundation for community-based mental health interventions

As part of the DREAMH project, supported by L’Initiative - Expertise France, SCDI organized training sessions on community-based mental health interventions in Hai Phong from June 29 to 30 and Ninh Binh from July 1 to 2. The sessions brought together psychiatrists, community outreach workers, and representatives from local project partners.

Psychiatrists shared essential knowledge on common mental health conditions among people living with and affected by HIV, early signs that may require support, and processes for connecting people with specialized health services and supporting them throughout treatment and recovery.

Participants joined discussions facilitated by psychiatrists

The sessions strengthened community outreach workers’ knowledge and skills while reinforcing coordination between outreach networks, healthcare providers, and project partners. This collaboration supports a more continuous and accessible pathway to comprehensive care for communities experiencing vulnerability.

Breaking the Cycle: Supporting children’s learning and development beyond the classroom

Summer sports activities continue for children in Ha Noi

On July 2, the Breaking the Cycle program in Ha Noi launched its badminton club with an introductory session for participating children. The children took part in warm-up exercises, learned basic badminton techniques, and practiced in pairs.

Together with the English and Music Clubs, the summer sports activities provide opportunities for children to stay active, meet friends, and explore new interests through age-appropriate activities.

Children excitedly gathered for their first day with the badminton club

These sessions also create supportive spaces where children can learn new skills, connect with peers, and enjoy meaningful experiences throughout the summer.

Children explore vocational opportunities at KOTO Open Day

On July 3, the Breaking the Cycle program connected children and parents in Ha Noi with KOTO’s Open Day, providing an opportunity to learn more about vocational training and future education pathways.

Children and parents were introduced to KOTO’s training model, learning environment, and scholarship opportunities. They also took part in hands-on activities such as cooking and beverage preparation, explored the training facilities, and met instructors and former students.

Children and parents arrived at KOTO Training Centre for the Open Day event

The experience gave children a clearer understanding of vocational education and potential pathways for their future. It also supports the program’s efforts to expand access to career information and help children and families make informed decisions about education and career choices.

Breaking the Cycle engages families ahead of the new school year

On July 12, the Breaking the Cycle team in Ho Chi Minh City met with parents of participating children to discuss their children’s learning situation and identify needs ahead of the 2026-2027 school year.

Parents and the program team exchanged information on children’s education, challenges faced by families, and their priorities for the coming school year. These discussions provide a basis for identifying appropriate support for each child and family.

Project officer met with parents ahead of the new school year

Regular engagement with families is an important part of the program’s ongoing support, helping the team better understand changing needs and adapt support as children move through different stages of their education.

Children explore education and career pathways in Ho Chi Minh City

On July 19, the Breaking the Cycle program continued its career guidance activities in Ho Chi Minh City through a session organized with KOTO, the Seeds of Hope (SoH) project under IECD Vietnam, and Huynh Tat Phat Secondary School.

Children learned about careers in education and explored vocational training opportunities in hospitality and restaurant services through KOTO, as well as automotive maintenance and painting through the Seeds of Hope project.

Representative from the Seeds of Hope project introduces their curriculum to the childrem

The session provided children with information about different education and vocational pathways, including the requirements and learning environments associated with each field. It also encouraged them to explore their interests and abilities as they consider future options.

SCDI and Chuot Dat Books create a reading space for children and families

On July 25, SCDI collaborated with Chuot Dat Books to organize a reading station for children and parents participating in the Breaking the Cycle program in Ha Noi.

Children and parents were invited to read together, talk about stories, and explore books with guidance from the Chuot Dat Books team. The activity created a welcoming space where children and parents could participate and interact together.

Representative from Chuot Dat Books guided children and their parents to engage in the reading activity

Beyond encouraging children’s access to books, the activity promoted positive parent-child interactions through shared reading and conversation, helping make reading a shared family experience and creating more opportunities for learning and connection.