Vietnam to Unify Textbooks Nationwide from 2026 Academic Year

Vietnam is set to implement a significant educational reform by adopting a unified set of textbooks across all its primary and secondary schools starting from the 2026 academic year. This move is a direct implementation of Resolution No. 71-NQ/TW, issued by the Politburo on August 22, 2025, which outlines a strategy for "Breakthrough Development of Education and Training." The core objective of this nationwide unification is to enhance the quality and equity of education. By standardizing the curriculum materials, Vietnam aims to ensure that students, regardless of their geographical location or socio-economic background, receive a consistent level of education. This initiative is expected to address the long-standing issue of varying educational standards across different regions and institutions. Beyond the unification of textbooks, the Vietnamese government is also exploring the possibility of making textbooks free for all students. A proposal suggests that this could be implemented from the 2029 academic year, requiring an estimated budget of over 4 trillion Vietnamese dong (approximately USD 160 million). This ambitious plan aims to alleviate the financial burden on families and further promote educational access, particularly for those in poorer communities. Local initiatives, such as those in Sơn Cẩm Hà, are already mobilizing support to provide textbooks to underprivileged students. The reform also encompasses modernization and inclusivity. Plans are in motion to develop accessible e-textbooks, catering to students with disabilities, including those with visual impairments. Furthermore, the process of appraising textbooks for foreign languages, specifically English and other second languages, is slated for 2026, ensuring the quality and relevance of language education. This comprehensive educational overhaul reflects the Communist Party of Vietnam's commitment to fostering human capital as a key driver of national development. The centralized nature of Vietnam's political system allows for the swift and coordinated implementation of such large-scale reforms, signaling a determined effort to elevate the nation's educational standards and prepare its youth for future challenges. Source: Nhan Dan