The Role of Social Sciences and Humanities in Sustainable Development in Vietnam: A Case Study of Charitable Activities by Buddhist Nuns in Ho Chi Minh City

Abstract

This paper examines the overarching role of the Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) in the sustainable development process of Vietnam. Utilizing a theoretical framework rooted in Social Capital and Community-Based Social Work, this study selects the socio-charitable activities of the Ni giới (Buddhist nuns) in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) as a representative empirical case study. Employing an interdisciplinary qualitative methodology that combines secondary document analysis and in-depth interviews, the findings indicate that Buddhist nuns not only alleviate the welfare strains placed on the public sector through three specialized models (social protection, community healthcare, and alternative education) but also act as catalysts for operationalizing and translating SSH knowledge into urban life. This is achieved by restructuring urban ethics and fostering sustainable livelihoods for marginalized groups. On this basis, the paper proposes institutionalized solutions to optimize this religious resource.