Vietnam has set an ambitious target to elevate its higher education system among the top 10 in Asia and the top four in Southeast Asia by 2030. This vision is part of the Education Development Strategy approved by the Prime Minister, which outlines transformative goals for all levels of education through 2030, with a long-term vision to 2045.
The strategy aims to achieve significant milestones across early childhood, general, and higher education. By 2030, 99.5% of preschool children will attend two daily sessions to ensure their holistic development. Private and semi-private schools are expected to constitute 30% of preschools, accommodating 35% of enrolled children. In general education, all primary school students will attend two sessions per day, with private schools representing 5% of institutions and catering to 5.5% of the student population.
In higher education, Vietnam plans to enroll at least 260 university students per 10,000 citizens, with 33% of individuals aged 18–22 pursuing higher education. Additionally, 1.5% of students in higher education will be international, and at least 40% of university lecturers will hold doctoral degrees. The country is also striving to have five universities ranked among the top 500 globally and five within Asia’s top 200. Aligning with its knowledge-based economy goals, the proportion of students pursuing STEM disciplines will increase to 35%, and scientific publications per lecturer will rise to 0.6 annually.
To achieve these objectives, Vietnam will implement sweeping reforms in governance, curriculum design, and teaching methodologies. The integration of STEM education and career guidance into general education will prepare students for future challenges and the labor market. Higher education reforms will prioritize quality improvements in teaching, scientific research, and technological innovation, with a focus on aligning with international standards. Partnerships between educational institutions and enterprises will ensure that graduates are equipped with skills that meet industry demands.
Foreign language education is a central focus, with the goal of making English a second language in schools. Efforts will include enhanced teacher training, updated curricula, and investments in resources to offer programs in English at universities. These measures aim to prepare students for global opportunities and meet workforce demands in an increasingly interconnected world.
Infrastructure development will support these transformative efforts. The government plans to allocate land for the construction and expansion of educational institutions, along with relocating urban universities to suburban areas to accommodate growth and modernization.
Vietnam’s Education Development Strategy reflects a strong commitment to elevating its education system to international standards. By fostering innovation, nurturing talent, and building global partnerships, the nation is poised to become a regional leader in higher education. These reforms will play a vital role in supporting Vietnam’s aspirations for sustainable development and a competitive, knowledge-driven economy.
