Navigating Educational reform: A National Priority

Vietnam’s Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) is currently undergoing significant reforms, focusing on optimizing educational management and aligning organizational structures with the evolving needs of the nation. Recent discussions between MOET, the National Assembly’s Committee on Culture and Social Affairs, and provincial representatives from Quang Ninh highlight the complexities of these changes, particularly concerning teacher shortages and the consolidation of educational institutions.

Addressing Teacher Shortages: A Long-Term Strategy

The province of Quang Ninh faces a significant challenge with a shortage of 2,660 teachers. Deputy Minister of education and Training,Pham ngoc Thuong,emphasized that addressing this issue requires a enduring,long-term strategy focused on providing teachers with the support and resources they deserve. he stressed that these measures are not special favors but rather the rightful entitlements of educators, ensuring a stable and motivated teaching workforce.

This is not a preferred treatment, a privilege or a special advantage, but something that is entitled to the teachers.
Pham Ngoc Thuong, Deputy Minister of Education and Training

Strategic consolidation: Prioritizing Educational Goals

As Vietnam implements a two-stage local government model, the restructuring of educational institutions is under scrutiny. Minister Nguyen Kim son cautioned against the mechanical merging of schools, emphasizing that such actions could be detrimental to educational objectives.The focus should be on ensuring the seamless operation of educational institutions during administrative transitions.

minister Son stated that a thorough evaluation of the system is necessary before any reorganization takes place. This measured approach aims to minimize disruption and maintain the quality of education during the reform process.

After we have stabilized the system and have evaluated all aspects thoroughly, we will check it and, if necessary, reorganize it.
Nguyen Kim Son, Minister of Education

Decentralization and Accountability: Defining Roles in Education

Minister Nguyen Kim Son also addressed the importance of clearly defining the responsibilities of educational authorities at both the departmental and community levels. While advocating for a separation of duties, he cautioned against rigid divisions, emphasizing the need for collaboration and flexibility.

With over 52,000 educational institutions and 23.4 million students across the country, the scale of Vietnam’s education system is immense. On average, each community serves approximately 7,000 students, supported by two educational administrative officials at the municipal level. To ensure effective governance,nationwide training courses will be implemented to clarify the roles and responsibilities of these civil servants.

Streamlining School Enrollment: A GIS-Driven Approach

Looking ahead to the 2026-2027 school year,MOET plans to implement a new enrollment principle that prioritizes student access to the closest educational institution,nonetheless of administrative boundaries. This approach, already piloted in Ho Chi Minh City using a Geographical Details System (GIS), aims to streamline the enrollment process and reduce commuting burdens for students.

The GIS system, wich has been in use since 2023, allows for a more efficient allocation of students to schools based on their residential location, optimizing resource utilization and improving accessibility.

Rethinking Supplementary Education: Quality Over Quantity

The issue of supplementary education,often referred to as second lessons, was also a key topic of discussion. Minister Nguyen Kim Son emphasized that while supplementary lessons can be offered, they should not be mandatory or exploitative. The primary focus should remain on delivering a high-quality core curriculum within the regular school day.

The Minister cautioned against the falsification of supplementary lessons, stressing the importance of a healthy and ethical learning environment. He argued that while additional lessons might temporarily boost academic performance,they do not necessarily contribute to the holistic development of students.

additional lessons can increase academic achievements, but does not bring much added value to the development of the learners.
Nguyen Kim Son, Minister of Education

The Path Forward: A Holistic approach to Education

Vietnam’s ongoing education reforms represent a comprehensive effort to enhance the quality, accessibility, and equity of its education system. By addressing teacher shortages, optimizing administrative structures, streamlining enrollment processes, and promoting ethical supplementary education practices, MOET aims to create a learning environment that fosters the holistic development of all students.