Preschool education is increasingly recognized as the foundation for building a modern, inclusive, and future-ready education system in Vietnam. A recent article by Dr. Le Thi Mai Hoa, Deputy Director General of the Department of Education, CPV’s Central Commission for Propaganda and Mass Mobilization, highlights key orientations aligned with national education reform, emphasizing that early childhood education plays a decisive role in shaping human development from the earliest years.
The 2026 Vision for Early Childhood Education
The article by Dr. Le Thi Mai Hoa underscores that by 2026, Vietnam is moving toward a modern education system characterized by standardization, digital transformation, and international integration. Within this broader vision, preschool education is not only about care and basic learning but also about nurturing children’s holistic development—cognitive, emotional, social, and physical—laying the groundwork for lifelong learning and adaptability. This comprehensive approach ensures that children are well-prepared for the transition to primary school and beyond.
Shifting to Child-Centered Learning
A major focus is the shift toward child-centered, experiential learning approaches. Modern pedagogies encourage creativity, exploration, and problem-solving rather than passive knowledge transmission. This aligns with global trends where early education emphasizes “learning through play,” integration of technology, and development of essential life skills [vas.edu.vn]. By fostering a dynamic learning environment, educators can better address the diverse needs and interests of young learners.
Empowering Teachers and Expanding Access
The article also highlights the critical role of teachers as facilitators of learning and innovation. Strengthening teacher capacity, continuous professional development, and exposure to international practices are essential to achieving quality improvements across the sector. At the same time, expanding access, particularly through non-public preschool providers, remains vital to meeting growing demand, especially in urban and industrial areas where public facilities may be overstretched.
The Role of Non-Public Providers
For VANPPE and its members, these insights reaffirm the importance of investing in quality, innovation, and collaboration to ensure that preschool education continues to serve as a strong foundation for Vietnam’s future workforce and society. Non-public institutions are uniquely positioned to pioneer new methodologies and adapt swiftly to the competency-based curriculum requirements set forth by the Ministry of Education and Training.
Read the full article by Dr. Le Thi Mai Hoa in the Vietnamese language HERE.
Are you a non-public preschool provider looking to align with Vietnam’s 2026 education reform?
Join the Vietnam Association for Non-Public Preschool Education (VANPPE) today to access exclusive resources, professional development programs, and a network of innovative educators dedicated to shaping the future of early childhood education. [Click here to learn more about VANPPE membership and initiatives.]
