On September 13, 2026, the Prime Minister of Vietnam issued a directive emphasizing that provincial and city leaders bear full responsibility for the management of meal services in schools. This move comes amid concerns regarding food safety and quality in educational settings.

The directive, signed by Deputy Prime Minister Le Tien Chau, highlights the necessity for local authorities to oversee the selection of food suppliers and ensure that all meals meet safety standards. It addresses issues related to the sourcing, quality control, and nutritional value of meals provided to students.

In recent years, many schools have adopted modern bidding processes to ensure safe and nutritious meal services. However, the government has identified gaps in the management of food safety, which could pose risks to students' health.

The Prime Minister's directive mandates that provincial leaders must not only supervise meal provision but also enforce strict monitoring of food suppliers. This includes verifying the origin and quality of food products, as well as ensuring compliance with food safety regulations during preparation, transportation, and storage.

Local governments are tasked with selecting and contracting meal service providers transparently and fairly, prioritizing food safety and nutritional quality over cost alone. The Ministry of Education and Training is also called upon to finalize regulations governing school meal services, outlining the responsibilities of various stakeholders.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Health is instructed to enhance inspections of food safety in facilities supplying meals to schools, particularly those serving multiple institutions. This comprehensive approach aims to safeguard the health of students and ensure that they receive quality nutrition during their school years.