What Service Fees Do Public Schools in Ho Chi Minh City Collect?

In Ho Chi Minh City, it has been revealed that public schools are collecting various "service fees" from students beyond regular tuition. These fees include charges for services supporting school operations, enrollment in specialized programs offered by the school (such as gifted education, arts, computer skills, foreign languages, digital citizenship, and STEM education), as well as costs for school supplies and learning materials. Under Vietnam's one-party system, the education sector is under government control. However, a portion of public school operating funds also relies on contributions from parents. Particularly in urban areas, expectations for educational quality are high, yet concerns about the burden of additional expenses also exist. This reporting may spark discussions among parents and the public regarding the specific services these fees are allocated to, as well as their transparency and appropriateness. As Vietnam continues its rapid economic growth, investment in education is crucial for nurturing future generations, and maintaining the fairness and quality of public education remains a significant challenge. With Vietnam's remarkable economic growth, investment in education is essential for nurturing future generations. As expectations for educational quality rise, especially in urban areas, the collection of additional fees in public schools can become a burden for parents. The government faces the challenge of securing school operating funds while ensuring educational equity.