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Mr. Nguyen Xuan Sung, an 80-year-old resident of Hai Ba Trung District in Hanoi, surprises onlookers as he personally drives his son to the 10th-grade exam. Photo by Thanh Hung.


At Tran Duy Hung Secondary School in Cau Giay district, Hanoi, Mr. Sung stood beside his trusted vehicle, a 30-year-old Honda Cup 82, with his distinct white hair adding to his appearance.

Born in 1944 and residing in Hai Ba Trung district, Hanoi, Mr. Sung, a father of three, embarked on the task of transporting his youngest son, Nguyen Xuan Toan, a student at Ngo Gia Tu Secondary School, to the exam. Despite his age, Mr. Sung enthusiastically took on the responsibility. 

"My older sons live far away, and my wife doesn't ride a motorbike, so I accompany my youngest son," he explained.

When queried about his age, Mr. Sung humorously replied, "I'm just 80, still young."

Expressing his delight in supporting his son during this pivotal moment, Mr. Sung remarked, "I want to be there for him, providing care and encouragement, especially during important events like exams."

For Mr. Sung, the 6-kilometer journey to the exam venue was a minor task compared to the efforts parents make for their children's education.

Mr. Sung's determination is further admirable considering his partially paralyzed right leg since childhood, yet he adeptly manages long distances on a motorbike.

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Mr. Nguyen Xuan Sung and his son, Nguyen Xuan Toan. Photo: Thanh Hung

Toan, with three high school preferences, also registered for two high schools for the gifted students.

Imparting valuable advice to his son, Mr. Sung emphasized the importance of tackling easier questions first and leaving more challenging ones for later.

In the days preceding the exam, Mr. Sung stressed the significance of hard work, hoping to secure a spot in a nearby high school for his son.

A former high school valedictorian himself, Mr. Sung places a high value on education, encouraging his children to excel academically.

Assuming the role of a "motorbike taxi" for three consecutive exam days, Mr. Sung remains confident in his aging motorbike.

Toan, accompanied by his father, feels reassured, stating it's "much better than taking a motorbike taxi." Both father and son share aspirations of achieving stellar results in the exams.

Thanh Hung