Vietnam to Significantly Reduce Public School Management Units, Consolidations Underway

Vietnam's Ministry of Education and Training has announced plans to reduce public school management units by an average of 46.7% nationwide, equivalent to approximately 17,350 school management entities. Among the provinces, Dong Thap is projected to lead with the highest reduction rate at 65.1%, followed by Hung Yen at 60.4%. Other localities slated for significant reductions of over 50% include Ha Tinh, Thai Nguyen, Vinh Long, Lao Cai, Ninh Binh, Hanoi, Quang Tri, and Ca Mau. In contrast, Ho Chi Minh City is expected to see a reduction of around 32%, the lowest among 34 provinces and cities. Most other areas anticipate reductions ranging from 35% to 50%. The ministry explained that the varying reduction rates reflect local characteristics such as educational network structures, population density, geography, and school scales, and do not necessarily indicate slow progress or low efficiency. Regions with larger reductions will focus on increasing the scale and administrative scope of newly merged schools. Regarding the timeline, Quang Ninh is the only province that has completed its school consolidation and reorganization. Son La is expected to finish by August 10, while Khanh Hoa, Hue, Hanoi, Lam Dong, An Giang, and Ca Mau aim to complete by August 15. The remaining localities plan to finalize their reorganizations after August. The nationwide initiative aims to reduce management units by at least 30%. The Ministry of Education and Training notes that many schools are currently small and fragmented, not optimally suited to current population sizes and development needs. The consolidation seeks to shift from a "school management" mindset to "educational development governance" to enhance quality. Two models are being implemented: large-scale single-level schools (with branches and satellite campuses) and inter-level schools. The ministry has urged local authorities to ensure stability and minimize negative impacts on teaching, learning, and the psychological well-being of students, teachers, and parents. Last month, it was estimated that over 20,000 principals and vice-principals would be reassigned or restructured, with 11,000 returning to teaching roles.