Vietnam Accelerates Digital Transformation in Education Sector

Vietnam is moving to modernize its national education system through a series of new digital transformation initiatives. Deputy Prime Minister Le Tien Chau called for faster implementation of these programs during a nationwide conference held in Hanoi on November 6, 2026. The effort aims to improve data connectivity, reduce reliance on paper-based procedures, and expand the use of artificial intelligence in classrooms. During the conference, officials reviewed the progress of digital systems within the education sector. While the country has established a core digital data system, the Deputy Prime Minister noted that the practical use of this information remains slower than expected. He identified several obstacles, including limited infrastructure, cybersecurity concerns, and a shortage of skilled personnel to manage these new platforms. To address these challenges, the government is prioritizing the cleaning and verification of education databases. The Ministry of Education and Training has been directed to work with the Ministry of Public Security to verify more than 44 million digitised diplomas and certificates. These records will be linked to citizens' identification numbers to ensure they are reliable and ready for use across public services. Reducing administrative burdens is a central goal of this digital push. The Ministry of Education and Training is coordinating with the Ministry of Justice to create plans that allow digital school records to replace paper documents. This change is intended to simplify administrative processes for students, schools, and government agencies alike. Infrastructure development remains a key focus for the 2026-2027 academic year. Authorities are assessing the requirements at the National Data Centre to ensure that digital education platforms can operate securely and in sync across the country. The government is also working to expand reliable internet connectivity, particularly in remote and disadvantaged areas. Beyond administrative tasks, the government is looking toward the future of classroom learning. A national project for digital learning materials is currently in development, alongside a broader strategy for AI application in education. This plan covers the period from 2026 to 2030, with a long-term vision extending to 2035. These efforts build upon earlier initiatives to integrate technology into the curriculum. Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, Vietnam is rolling out artificial intelligence lessons for students from grade 1 through grade 12. This curriculum focuses on AI ethics, human-centered thinking, and system design. These digital reforms are part of a larger national effort to improve the quality of education. In August 2026, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam and President To Lam emphasized the need for substantive changes in school governance and teaching methods. He stated that the ultimate goal is to develop well-rounded individuals rather than focusing solely on test scores. Despite these ambitious goals, the sector continues to face practical challenges. As of June 2026, the Ministry of Education and Training reported a shortage of over 100,000 public preschool and general-education teachers. Addressing these staffing gaps remains a priority alongside the push for technological advancement. Local governments have been instructed to ensure that schools have the necessary funding and personnel to support these digital transitions. Officials emphasized that no student should have their learning opportunities limited by a lack of resources. The government expects these coordinated efforts to lead to measurable progress in the coming months.