A professor has donated a savings book worth VND1 billion (US$40,716) through Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper to support people affected by typhoon Yagi in northern Vietnam.

In response to Tuoi Tre’s call for reader contributions, Prof. Dr. Le Ngoc Thach, a visiting lecturer at the University of Science under the Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City, delivered his savings book worth VND1 billion to the newspaper headquarters in person on Tuesday morning. 

The donation is intended to aid people in northern Vietnam affected by typhoon Yagi, also known as storm No. 3.

The strongest storm to hit the East Vietnam Sea in 30 years, Yagi made landfall on Saturday, causing widespread damage in the northern region.

The Vietnam News Agency reported that 200 people have been killed or are missing due to extensive flooding and landslides as of Wednesday noon.

“I couldn’t just sit at home watching the storm and rain news,” Prof. Thach said. 

“I felt a deep sorrow for those suffering, and when I saw Tuoi Tre’s support program, I knew I had to contribute immediately.”

Prof. Thach, who has witnessed many major storms but found typhoon Yagi particularly devastating, expressed his concern for the severe impact it has had.

The professor, who has saved money from his retirement, teaching, and book writing, shared that he lives modestly and decided to donate his entire savings book. 

He only retained the interest to fund other charitable activities.

“The savings book [was] due in eight days, but I was concerned that waiting might delay the support needed for the people affected by storm No. 3, so I brought it here right away,” he said. 

“While VND1 billion is a significant amount for an individual contribution, it’s just a drop in the ocean compared to the scale of the damage."

As a lecturer, he was particularly moved by the flooding of many schools and hoped his contribution, along with others, would help alleviate some of the suffering. 

This is not the first time Prof. Thach has been actively involved with Tuoi Tre’s charitable programs. 

“It’s not by chance that I bring VND1 billion here,” he said, expressing his confidence in Tuoi Tre’s efforts. 

“I see that Tuoi Tre has always directed readers’ contributions to where they are most needed.”

True to his dedication, the 76-year-old man made the trip to the Tuoi Tre headquarters on his motorbike on Tuesday morning to deliver his support.

Receiving the donation, a representative of Tuoi Tre assured that the funds would be used effectively to aid affected provinces and cities. 

As of Wednesday noon, over 1,200 readers had donated nearly VND3 billion ($122,125) through Tuoi Tre to help people in the flood-hit areas of northern Vietnam.

Readers who wish to contribute can follow the instructions provided at this link.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!