A recent study by the Institute for Policy Development at Vietnam National University HCMC highlights the economic and professional challenges faced by teachers in three provinces: Binh Thuan, Tay Ninh, and Hau Giang. Conducted in September and October 2024, the study surveyed nearly 13,000 educators and administrators to better understand the state of the teaching profession.  

While the increase in the base salary to VND 2.34 million (effective July 1, 2024) has improved teacher incomes, the study found that teaching salaries meet only 51.87% of household expenses for those without additional side jobs. For teachers with supplemental incomes, the figure rises to 62.55%.  

For educators with less than 10 years of experience, teaching salaries cover just 45.7% of their monthly needs.  

Financial stress is a significant concern, with an average pressure rating of 3.61 out of 5, where 5 indicates extreme stress. Over 44% of teachers reported feeling "pressured" or "extremely pressured," while only 19% said they feel comfortable financially.  

The survey revealed that 25.4% of teachers provide extra lessons in schools, and 8.2% tutor outside school. Tutoring is especially common in subjects like Math, Literature, English, Physics, and Chemistry. Weekly hours dedicated to tutoring average 8.6 hours for primary school teachers, 13.75 hours for middle school teachers, and 14.91 hours for high school teachers.  

Teachers engage in diverse forms of tutoring, including in-person lessons at home, at centers, online, and via open educational platforms. Despite regulations banning at-home tutoring, many teachers still participate in these activities, often citing the need for additional income.  

The survey found that 63.57% of teachers support the legalization of tutoring, including in-home and online formats, to supplement their earnings transparently.  

Despite financial hardships and workplace stress, 94.23% of surveyed teachers said they remain dedicated to their profession, primarily out of passion for teaching and their students. Nearly half cited reasonable income and favorable policies as motivators to stay in the profession.  

Key policies desired by teachers include:  

- Financial incentives (89.18%)  

- Reduced retirement age (83.91%)  

- Increased income (83.57%)  

- Simplified promotion pathways (82.96%)  

To address these issues, Vietnam National University HCMC recommends:  

- Improved salary structures and allowances to alleviate financial burdens.  

- Clearer, transparent regulations on private tutoring to harmonize with teacher salary policies.  

-  Lower retirement ages for preschool teachers and extended service for those with advanced qualifications such as doctorates or professorships.  

The study also emphasizes the need for comprehensive legal frameworks to protect teachers from financial and professional pressures, ensuring their well-being and long-term commitment to the profession.  

Le Huyen