In April last year a severe storm completely destroyed the a suspension bridge that had served as a vital link connecting villages in the commune.

To enable children to keep going to school and transport agricultural produce, Noc Coc villagers built a temporary bridge themselves.

Do Anh Dung, Muong Lam's vice chairman, said the commune is particularly disadvantaged.

"This bridge has long been the villagers' dream. Upon its handover and use, everyone is filled with joy. From now on more than 1,600 people living in local hamlets can travel safely and conveniently.

"The bridge will also contribute to socio-economic development."

The new bridge was built through community contributions coordinated by VnExpress's Hope Foundation.

Healthcare company Roche Vietnam Co., Ltd. contributed VND200 million (US$7,600), lecturers and students from FPT Polytechnic College raised another VND200 million, and MoMo e-wallet users donated VND150 million.

The remainder came from local authorities and residents.

Representatives of sponsoring organizations, local authorities and villagers at the inauguration of Hope Bridge 439.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Nguyen Thi Thuy, a department head at FPT Polytechnic College, said students had raised funds for the bridge by selling snacks, drinks and handmade products.

"Beyond teaching knowledge, we instill in students the spirit of giving, community responsibility, and gratitude. This bridge proves that small actions, when combined, can create great impact."

Ricky He, general director of Roche, said this is the fourth bridge his company has supported through the Hope Foundation.

"I hope the new bridge not only ensures children's safe journey to school but also connects them to a brighter future. This aligns with Roche's long-term principle: Think long-term, create impact today - acting on practical steps now to build sustainable value for communities."

The new bridge greatly improves trade and travel.

Hope Bridge 439 is part of "The Road to School" program run by the Hope Foundation, a non-profit charity operated by VnExpress newspaper and the FPT Group.

Since 2018 the program has helped build more than 450 bridges around the country in remote and difficult areas, helping children go to school safely.

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