On 22/9, Ho Chi Minh City’s Department of Education and Training inspected Vinh Tan Primary School after parents complained about their children having to use old desks and chairs with peeling surfaces, rusty legs, and deteriorating classrooms.

The school explained that the 4 temporary classrooms, nearly 30 years old, had deteriorated. Previously used for storage, practice sessions, and equipment, these rooms now accommodate 8 classes (split between morning and afternoon sessions) due to a 240-student increase this year. The reused furniture is mostly damaged, some too small for the students, making it difficult for them to take notes.

Inspectors check facilities at Vinh Tan Primary School on the morning of 22/9. Photo: Phuoc Tuan

Inspectors check facilities at Vinh Tan Primary School on the morning of 22/9. Photo: Phuoc Tuan

Vinh Tan ward People's Committee leadership stated that all furniture in the four classrooms will be replaced.

"The new furniture will arrive this afternoon, and students will have new desks and chairs tomorrow," a ward leader said. Vinh Tan ward also plans to repaint these classrooms over the weekend to improve their appearance.

Vinh Tan Primary School has about 2,100 students. The Ministry of Education and Training stipulates a class size of 35 students, but due to overcrowding, classes have 45 to 50 students.

Ward representatives said the local population has rapidly increased. Another primary school exists in the area, but it's insufficient. Therefore, the local government plans to build a new school soon.

A temporary classroom at Vinh Tan Primary School on the morning of 22/9. Photo: Phuoc Tuan

A temporary classroom at Vinh Tan Primary School on the morning of 22/9. Photo: Phuoc Tuan

This afternoon, the City People's Committee urged the Department of Education and Training and the Department of Finance to quickly coordinate and provide replacement furniture and equipment, ensuring safe and adequate learning conditions for Vinh Tan Primary School students.

The Department of Education and Training must collaborate with localities to thoroughly assess facilities and teaching equipment in all public schools, categorize damage levels, propose repair and new investment plans, and report to the City People's Committee by 30/9.

The City has requested ward, commune, and special zone People's Committees to proactively allocate and advance funds from local budgets to immediately repair serious damage. Schools at risk of safety issues or deterioration should report to the Department of Education.

Phuoc Tuan - Le Nguyen