Vietnam Ministry of Education to abolish parent-managed funds

The Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training is planning to abolish regulations regarding activity fees directly collected and managed by parent representative boards. This move follows concerns over how these funds are utilized in schools.

In one reported case at Khương Đình High School in Hanoi, parents expressed frustration over a lack of transparency and planning. A parent reported that a representative board collected a flat fee of 2 million VND per person before the school year even began, without a clear expenditure plan.

Disputes also arose regarding the purchase of classroom equipment. While some parents suggested more affordable options, others pushed for expensive, high-end televisions. In one instance, a television costing over 40 million VND was purchased despite a majority preference for cheaper models. Additionally, parents noted that teachers often participated in these discussions, which made those wishing to dissent feel intimidated.