Laws and Other Basic Regulations Concerning Education

The Constitution of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (1992) guarantees that all citizens have the right to education. According to Article 59, "Education is a right and an obligation of citizens. Elementary education is mandatory and free. Citizens have the right to pursue their general education and to learn a profession under various forms. Gifted students shall be encouraged by the State and society to develop their talents. The State shall adopt policies on tuition fees and scholarships. The State and society shall create conditions for handicapped children to pursue general education and to learn appropriate professions." (See also: http://www.right-to-education.org).

The Law on Universal Primary Education (UPE) was adopted by the National Assembly (VIII Legislature) on 12 August 1991. Article 1 provides as follows: “The State implements the policy of compulsory universal primary education (UPE) for all children aged 6-14.”

The Law on Education was adopted by the fourth session of the National Assembly (X Legislature) on 2 December 1998 and entered into force on 1 June 1999. In accordance with this law, primary education (Grades I-V) is compulsory for all children aged 6-14. The admission age is 6. The law also contains provisions concerning pre-school care and education, and non-formal education. Article 7 specifies that Vietnamese is the official language in schools, and that ethnic groups have the right to learn by and use their own language and writing systems to create a basis for the preservation and development of their culture.