The Ministry of Education and Training recently drafted amendments to Circular 29, which addresses extra teaching and learning. The draft has been sent to 11 localities for feedback, including Hanoi, TP HCM, Hai Phong, Bac Ninh, Ninh Binh, Hung Yen, Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, Hue City, and Da Nang.

The Ministry proposes that the maximum duration for extra classes within schools remains two periods per week per subject. However, the Director of the Department of Education and Training can "loosen the ceiling" for "special cases." The Ministry has not yet specified the criteria defining these "special cases."

Circular 29, issued by the Ministry in February, currently stipulates that junior high and high schools can only offer extra classes to three groups of students: those who are underperforming, those requiring gifted student development, and final-year students voluntarily preparing for exams. These classes must be free of charge. At the time of its issuance, many teachers and parents in TP HCM argued that two periods were insufficient to improve student capabilities, proposing an increase to 5-6 periods during the summer. However, a representative from the Ministry of Education stated this was not permitted.

High school graduation exam candidates at Trung Vuong High School, TP HCM, 6/. Photo: Thanh Tung

Additionally, the Ministry plans to require teachers offering extra classes outside school to publicly and regularly update information. This includes the subject, duration, location, format, student list, and tuition fees. The "regularly updating" element is a new requirement not mentioned in current regulations.

Another proposed change involves the Commune People's Committee. It will be responsible for managing, guiding, and inspecting extra teaching and learning activities within its jurisdiction. The committee will also handle violations or recommend that competent authorities address them.

The Ministry of Education and Training has requested the 11 localities to submit their feedback before 7/12. This input will help finalize the amendments and gather broader public opinions.

Thanh Hang