The Maternal and Child Health Department (Ministry of Health) released a preliminary report on July 11 about the alleged abuse. According to the report, on 5/7, the girl was hit with a stick and thrown against a wall by her teacher, Truong Thuy Van, 46. Van also allegedly punched, kicked, and dragged the child towards the classroom door, causing bruises on her back.

The family discovered the bruises while bathing the child that evening. They contacted the school demanding an explanation. Van later admitted to "hitting the child once or twice because she refused to nap."

The girl was taken to the National Children's Hospital for examination. Doctors found "scattered hemorrhages on the upper half of her back." Although she has returned home, her family says she remains traumatized and refuses to return to school.

The school has suspended Van while an investigation is underway. The Bo De ward police are working with medical professionals to gather evidence and clarify the details of the alleged abuse.

Injuries on the child's back after returning from school on 5/7. Photo: Provided by the family

This incident is one of several recent cases of violence and abuse against children at preschools across the country. Other incidents include a preschool teacher holding a child upside down and poking a stick in their mouth in Phuoc Chanh village, Quang Nam province, and another teacher hitting a child at May Dap Cau Kindergarten in Bac Ninh City.

In late April, the National Committee for Children (Ministry of Health) requested the Ministry of Education and Training to inspect preschools nationwide, especially private ones. They also urged authorities to strictly punish violators to ensure a safe, healthy, and child-friendly learning environment. They further recommended training and awareness campaigns for teachers and staff on preventing child abuse.

Current regulations prohibit teachers and staff at educational institutions from verbally or physically abusing students. Preschool teachers must meet ethical and professional standards and receive proper training.

There are over 5.1 million preschool-aged children in Vietnam, attending approximately 15,000 kindergartens and 17,000 independent preschools.

Le Nga