Vietnam's General Secretary and State President To Lam has emphasized the need to reform the educational workforce by reducing administrative positions while increasing the number of teachers directly involved in teaching. This directive comes as part of the preparations for the upcoming school year 2026-2027, aiming to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the education sector.

During a recent meeting on June 15, 2026, To Lam urged the Ministry of Education and Training to devise a flexible staffing plan that addresses the current imbalances in teacher distribution across schools. The goal is to ensure that teachers are present wherever there are students, thereby improving educational access and quality.

The proposed changes include transitioning from rigid staffing quotas to a more adaptable system that allows for the movement of teachers between schools within the same locality. This approach is expected to alleviate shortages in some areas while addressing surpluses in others.

The Ministry of Home Affairs is tasked with collaborating with the Ministry of Education and Training to assess the current state of educational management personnel at the local level and to propose solutions by the third quarter of 2026. Additionally, the government plans to reform the salary structure for teachers, aiming to position their salaries at the highest levels within the public service pay scale.

To Lam also highlighted the importance of addressing issues such as school violence and the pressure of additional learning outside of regular school hours. The Ministry of Education and Training is expected to implement measures to ensure a healthy educational environment and to enhance the quality of regular class hours while reducing the burden of examinations.

As part of the broader educational reform agenda, the government is shifting its focus from merely managing education to actively developing it. This includes preparing a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving economy, particularly in areas such as technology and innovation.