Ho Chi Minh City reports low English proficiency among preschool teachers

A survey conducted by the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Education and Training reveals that only 3.11 percent of the 15,554 preschool teachers surveyed have achieved an English proficiency level of B2 or higher. While 1,849 teachers reached the B1 level, approximately 65.13 percent fall into other proficiency categories, and nearly 20 percent have not been classified.

Lương Thị Hồng Điệp, Head of the Preschool Department at the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Education and Training, noted that a lack of confidence in communicating with children is a major barrier. Currently, English instruction in many areas relies heavily on teachers from private language centers due to the shortage of qualified staff in public institutions.

To support a long-term strategy to implement English as a second language from 2026 to 2045, the city plans to prioritize training for B1-level teachers to help them reach B2 standards. The city is also researching policies to attract high-quality human resources and will allocate funding for teacher training, digital platforms, and educational infrastructure.