Nguyen Van Hieu, the director, expressed this view at a conference summarizing and outlining tasks for the new academic year on 20/8.

According to Hieu, the 2025-2026 school year is particularly significant because, after the city's merger, it now has over 2.5 million students and more than 3,500 schools, making it the largest education system in the country.

In preparation for the new school year, Hieu emphasized two crucial aspects: facilities and teaching staff. He cited an example in Cau Ong Lanh ward, located in the city center, where three schools still had construction materials scattered around and ongoing repairs close to the opening day.

"This is unacceptable. I have addressed the issue, and the ward has promised to expedite the progress. If the work isn't completed in time, the schools need to organize the area, find temporary solutions, and ensure there's adequate space for the opening ceremony," he said. The city's education head then requested all schools to inspect safety conditions and urgently repair areas with "loose screws, cracked walls, peeling paint, especially restrooms."

"If students avoid using the restrooms due to their condition, the principal has failed to fulfill their duties. In such cases, principals should re-evaluate their capabilities and responsibilities. It’s deeply concerning if a whole school can't maintain its restrooms," he stated.

According to Hieu, the City Party Committee is highly concerned about this issue and has proposed establishing a supervisory team including parent representatives to monitor the situation. While some principals complained about a lack of funding, Hieu argued that administrators should be resourceful and could seek support from sponsors or parent contributions.

"Schools in Ho Chi Minh City still face numerous facility challenges, but now is not the time for complaints. We need to focus on finding solutions," Hieu acknowledged. "These seemingly small issues directly impact the quality of education."

Nguyen Van Hieu gives directions at the conference summarizing and outlining the new academic year for general education, morning of 20/8. Photo: Le Nguyen

Nguyen Van Hieu gives directions at the conference summarizing and outlining the new academic year for general education, morning of 20/8. Photo: Le Nguyen

Hieu also proposed involving parents, experts, and scientists in discussions about the ban on students using cell phones in schools. He stressed that schools must provide free communication channels for students to contact their families when needed. Teachers should announce in advance which lessons permit cell phone use as a learning tool.

"We aim to create happy schools, but it's counterproductive if during breaks, each student is isolated, engrossed in their phones. Cell phone habits also affect their connection and interaction with family, teachers, and peers," he said.

Furthermore, Hieu emphasized that schools are only allowed to collect fees for regulated items, preventing any unauthorized charges.

"No unapproved fees are permitted. Any collected fees, such as for uniforms or badges, must be clearly explained. I reiterate, there should be no mandatory charges for backpacks, shoes, or stationery, which could create financial burdens for students."

Regarding the implementation of two-session schooling as guided by the Ministry of Education and Training, Hieu stated that no fees should be collected for afternoon sessions using the school's facilities and teachers.

"Students needing extra classes in cultural subjects for graduation exams should be supported in registering for these classes. If teachers are assigned to teach beyond their allocated hours, the budget should cover their overtime pay," the director said.

Le Nguyen