Vietnam Ministry of Education drafts expanded minority support and bans ahead‑of‑schedule teaching

The Ministry of Education and Training released a draft decree to broaden preferential admission and study‑support policies for learners belonging to Vietnam’s very small ethnic minority groups. The proposal replaces earlier decrees and seeks to guarantee equal, continuous education at all levels—from preschool to postgraduate studies. It extends priority enrollment to non‑public institutions that meet criteria, offers the highest priority points for university admission, and introduces financial assistance ranging from 30% to 150% of the base salary, with the highest tier for postgraduate students. The draft also adds the option to use minority language certificates for postgraduate admissions.

In a separate draft circular, the ministry clarifies that “enhanced education” activities—such as clubs, advanced language classes, and STEM‑related programmes—must not be used to teach ahead of the national curriculum, prepare for exams, or provide extra content covered by existing after‑school regulations. The circular mandates that teachers delivering these activities hold appropriate qualifications, that non‑regular staff present verified credentials, and that teaching materials be approved before use.

Both documents are open for public comment as the ministry prepares to adopt the new regulations for the 2026 academic year.