Vietnam education proposal to cut grade 10 exams sparks debate

The Ministry of Education and Training's proposal to reduce the grade 10 entrance examination from three subjects to only Mathematics and Literature has sparked significant debate among parents, teachers, and students in Vietnam.

Critics of the proposal argue that removing English from the exam could increase pressure on the remaining two subjects, potentially leading to more students receiving identical scores and forcing schools to implement secondary criteria for admissions. Many stakeholders emphasize that English is essential for future academic success and aligns with national goals to establish English as a second language in schools.

Parents and students have expressed concerns regarding the timing of such changes. There are calls for a clear, multi-year roadmap and early announcements to allow students to adjust their study plans, as many have already dedicated significant time to preparing for a three-subject curriculum.