Speaking with VietNamNet, a representative of the department said authorities had received complaints from parents and media reports concerning educational activities at the institution located at Lot C3, Yen Hoa New Urban Area, Hanoi.

The controversy began after a parent whose child previously attended St. Mary’s International School in Yen Hoa Ward raised concerns about the school’s legal status and questioned the validity of student academic records following a transfer.

According to the complaint, a student born in 2013 studied at the school from August 2021 to June 2025.

However, during school transfer procedures, the parent allegedly discovered signs suggesting that the institution either lacked or had failed to provide proof of the legally required education operation license.

Authorities reviewing legal records

According to Hanoi’s Department of Education and Training, a review of legal records showed that the Hanoi People’s Committee issued Decision No. 2131/QD-UBND on May 13, 2021 authorizing the establishment of St. Mary’s International Kindergarten.

The department later issued Decision No. 872/QD-SGDDT on June 16, 2021 permitting the institution to organize preschool educational activities.

Other related matters are still under verification in accordance with regulations.

The department has also requested St. Mary’s International Kindergarten and Global Investment and Education Consultancy Joint Stock Company (GIS) to submit reports, explanations and relevant documents.

Authorities are continuing to review and compare information to clarify issues raised in the complaints.

Task force formed to investigate

Hanoi’s education department said the newly formed task force will conduct inspections and verify the allegations.

The results will serve as the basis for potential administrative action or recommendations to other competent agencies if violations are found.

At the same time, the department said it will continue coordinating with local wards and communes to strengthen state management of educational institutions under decentralized administrative authority.

Thanh Hung