The Kien Giang Youth Activity Center in the namesake province in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region has offered complimentary swimming classes to disadvantaged children.

The center, located in An Binh Ward in Rach Gia City, has been crowded by kids over the past few days.

Through the swimming lessons, 78 poor children in the city basically knew how to swim, hold their breath underwater, and protect themselves from drowning.

“This is my first time to learn to swim,” said Nguyen Hai Dang, a child in Rach Gia City.

The swimming class was interesting and useful, Dang said, adding that the course helped him keep safe in the water.

“I was initially scared of water, but now, I am not scared anymore. My teacher taught me and my friends how to swim. I am so excited,” Dang said happily.

“The free-of-charge swimming classes are truly meaningful and practical, so it is necessary to maintain and expand the courses to benefit more poor children,” said Nguyen Thanh Phong, a resident of Rach Soi Ward.

Swimming lessons will help children protect themselves from drowning. Photo: Chi Cong / Tuoi Tre

A representative of the center said that the center has been running two swimming classes for the 78 learners, who are aged between 10 and 16.

Each class offers three sessions a week, and features two teachers.

The manager of the swimming pool of the Kien Giang Youth Activity Center said that on the occasion of the Action Month for Children 2023, the center teamed up with the Youth Union of Rach Gia City, and other relevant units to launch the free swimming classes for poor children.

“These kids do like swimming. They are eager for swimming lessons and often come to class early. The classes are expected to help children grasp safe swimming skills in the water, and minimize drownings in the province,” she said.

Kids are instructed how to access water before entering swimming lessons. Photo: N. Mai

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