The city recently approved a pilot to change how preschools and general education schools operate from 2026 to 2030. A key measure allows the 246 schools to recruit teachers as public employees, including from among graduates with outstanding academic records.

Under the decision, the schools may recruit teachers directly and apply existing rules on pay, benefits and other policies for newly hired public employees.

The pilot covers schools offering high-quality and advanced education programs, programs designed for regional and international integration, integrated curricula or foreign curricula.

Of the 246 schools, 86 currently offer advanced, high-quality programs: 32 preschools, 31 primary schools, 19 lower secondary schools and four upper secondary schools.

Another 160 offer integrated or foreign programs, comprising 89 primary schools, 56 lower secondary schools and 15 upper secondary schools.

The transfer of recruitment authority is expected to give schools more control over selecting and assigning teachers suited to their curricula, particularly those offering advanced, integrated and international programs.

The schools may also sign contracts with foreign teachers in accordance with applicable regulations. The measure is intended to meet curriculum needs and strengthen an internationally oriented learning environment.

The 2026–2030 pilot forms part of Ho Chi Minh City’s broader effort to change the operating mechanisms of its preschools and general education schools.

Le Huyen