Singapore has long been recognized as the leading country in Southeast Asia for top-notch education and as a magnet for international students. However, did you know that Vietnam is increasingly establishing itself as an attractive educational destination for students from around the globe?
By mid-year, Viet Nam recorded a significant increase in the number of foreign students enrolled in its universities. The figure reached nearly 22,000 students, marking the highest record in the past nine years.
Further analysis shows that about 4,000 of these foreign students are part of exchange programs funded through bilateral cooperation between countries. Meanwhile, the majority of the other students finance their studies independently or through scholarship schemes offered by universities and local governments.
From 2016 to 2019, there was a steady increase in the number of international students in Viet Nam, rising from 17,500 to 21,000. However, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant decline in 2020 and 2021, with foreign student numbers dropping to 18,500 and 16,000 respectively. As the pandemic subsided, the upward trend in foreign student numbers in Viet Nam resumed.
Viet Nam: An Emerging Global Education Hub
Viet Nam has successfully established a globally recognized education system. This achievement is largely due to the Viet Namese government’s commitment to investing significant resources in the education sector, aligned with Ho Chi Minh's long-term vision. This success is even more impressive when compared to neighboring countries with higher GDP per capita.
The Viet Namese government has shown a strong commitment to improving education quality through various strategic policies. One of the key efforts is focusing on enhancing teacher quality.
Through strict supervision, continuous training, and competitive incentives, the government strives to create a supportive environment for the growth of the teaching profession. Additionally, the allocation of 20% of provincial budgets to the education sector and the active involvement of the Communist Party in developing curriculum and teaching standards have had a significant impact on improving education quality nationwide.
Quality Focus: Viet Nam's Education Reform
Resolution 29 of 2013 marked a new era in Viet Nam's education system, reflecting the government's commitment to comprehensive reform. This resolution established education as a top priority for the Communist Party, the government, and the people, positioning it as a crucial pillar for the country's economic development and modernization.
The reforms initiated aim to align education with labor market demands by restructuring vocational institutions and universities, setting competency standards, and strengthening research and its applications. The resolution also highlights the importance of studying best educational practices, increasing investment in universities, and integrating training with research.
Moreover, the development of laboratories, technology centers, and the active participation of students in scientific research are prioritized. The resolution encourages Viet Nam to exchange best practices with other countries, provide government-funded overseas training, and leverage foreign institutions for higher education and vocational training.
