Ho Chi Minh City Investigates Suspected Child Abuse at Kindergarten

Authorities in Ho Chi Minh City are investigating allegations of child abuse at a kindergarten after a video circulated on social media depicting a caregiver exhibiting abusive behavior towards children. The video, which spread on the evening of August 6, has caused public outrage. Footage shows a woman repeatedly firing a rubber band gun at a crying child's leg, hitting another child on the head, and lifting a young girl by her arm to move her. Initial investigations suggest the incident occurred in a classroom at the private La Xanh Kindergarten in Thuan Giao Ward. The woman in the video is identified as a caregiver at the facility. Authorities are working to verify the facts and will take strict legal action accordingly. This development follows a directive from the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee on July 28, which instructed the Department of Education and Training and local authorities to enhance inspection and supervision of independent childcare groups and private preschools. This indicates the city's prior concern regarding the operation of such facilities. Vietnam's rapid economic growth has led to a surge in demand for childcare services, particularly in urban areas. However, concerns have been raised about the quality of caregivers and facility management keeping pace with this expansion. The current incident highlights the pressing need for strengthened measures to ensure the quality and safety of early childhood education in Vietnam. Source: Nhan Dan