VietNamNet Bridge – School curriculums, the relationship between students and teachers, and violence at schools were among the issues students raised at a meeting with education officials in HCM City yesterday, March 23.

Many of them complained that they had to learn by rote.

Quang Van Cu Bi, a student of Hiep Binh High School in Thu Duc District, put it succinctly, saying he and his classmates studied from morning to night every day, including extra classes at teachers' houses. They studied several subjects in a year but did not remember anything once the year was finished.

Nguyen Thi Mai, a student of Phu Nhuan High School in Phu Nhuan District, said having to slog at school meant children did not have time for entertainment and other activities that could help build skills for their future.

Students hardly did any practical work at school or had outdoor activities or field trips which helped in understanding lessons, she said.

She suggested that schools should adopt the college system, allowing students to choose subjects they want to study.

Nguyen Thi Thao Ly of Tam Phu High School in Thu Duc District said the relationship between students in her school was not good, which often led to violence.

She called for having such forums or meetings between students, teachers, and parents to help them understand each other and improve bonds between teachers and students.

Dinh Phien Khuc of Dang Khoa Private High School, Phu Nhuan District, said most of the violence occured in schools because there was no focus on teaching students ethics.

Parents should also work with schools to educate their children, he said.

Le Hong Son, the Department deputy head, said the meeting gave authorities a chance to listen to and understand problems faced by students.

Huynh Cong Minh, Son's superior, promised to apprise his superiors about the issues raised at the meeting.

VietNamNet/Viet Nam News