Vietnam implements universal preschool education policies

The Vietnamese government has issued Decree No. 353/2026/ND-CP to implement universal preschool education for children aged 5 to 6. Signed by Deputy Prime Minister Le Tien Chau, the decree aims to ensure educational access through the national education system and armed forces institutions. Eligible children will receive tuition exemptions, reductions, or support, alongside assistance for learning costs and other social welfare benefits.

To support the workforce, a proposal from the Ministry of Education and Training suggests a minimum monthly subsidy of 800,000 VND for private preschool teachers working in areas with industrial zones, provided at least 30% of their students are children of industrial workers. This support is separate from negotiated salaries and social insurance.

In Khanh Hoa province, a new policy for the 2026-2030 period will provide free milk five times a week to preschool children from ethnic minority groups and those living in particularly difficult mountainous regions. The program is funded by the state budget and milk suppliers, with an estimated total cost exceeding 137 billion VND.