Vietnam's 2026 high‑school literature exam spotlights technology, AI and Steve Jobs

On 11 June 2026 more than 1.2 million Vietnamese high‑school seniors sat the national graduation exam for Literature. The reading passage centered on Johannes Gutenberg’s 1440 printing press, linking the historic diffusion of knowledge to today’s digital era. Subsequent questions asked candidates to evaluate how artificial intelligence can create “intellectual resonance” and to discuss what it would take for Vietnam to produce its own “Steve Jobs”. The essay portion also required analysis of Nguyễn Đình Thi’s poem “Những chiếc lá”, connecting personal experience with broader themes of transformation.

Teachers and university lecturers described the paper as highly differentiated and modern. Văn‑thạc sĩ Nguyễn Phước Bảo Khôi and Nguyễn Thị Bích Ngọc explained that the exam tests not only literary skills but also the ability to relate language to current technological and social issues. Their commentary was streamed live on the Báo Tiền Phong platform, offering solution hints to students. Officials noted that the test reflects a shift toward evaluating students’ capacity to integrate knowledge across disciplines in the era of AI and rapid technological change.