At a conference in Ho Chi Minh City on 27/8 reviewing the past academic year and outlining plans for the new one, the deputy minister said managing extra classes continues to be a key task.

However, with the shift from a three-tiered to a two-tiered government model, some aspects of circular 29 need revision. The general education department has been tasked with advising on these changes soon.

Mr. Thuong emphasized the unchanging principle of limiting the proliferation of extra classes. This view aligns with the guidance in resolution 71 on breakthroughs in education and training issued by the politburo.

"The consequences of widespread extra classes are significant, potentially stifling students' self-study habits," he said.

Deputy minister Pham Ngoc Thuong speaking at the conference on 27/8. Photo: Thanh Phuc

Deputy minister Pham Ngoc Thuong speaking at the conference on 27/8. Photo: Thanh Phuc

A week ago, at a conference summarizing Ho Chi Minh City's general education sector, Nguyen Van Hieu, director of the department of education and training, said only a few teachers create difficulties for students, forcing them to seek extra classes outside school. However, these few affect the entire education system. Therefore, the city will take decisive action against any violating teachers.

"Teachers wishing to offer extra classes must register at external centers. The department has management software, and schools must update information on which teachers are teaching, where, and which students are attending…," Mr. Hieu said.

The ministry of education and training issued circular 29 in February. It stipulates that individuals and organizations offering extra classes outside school must register their business, disclose tuition fees, class duration, and other relevant details. Teachers are also prohibited from charging their own students for extra classes.

Schools are only allowed to offer free extra classes to three groups: students who haven't met learning outcomes; students selected for gifted programs; and final-year students voluntarily registering for 10th-grade or high school graduation exam preparation.

Le Nguyen