The decision by the Politburo to provide free tuition for all public school students, from preschool to the end of high school, starting in the 2025-2026 academic year, has been met with enthusiasm by parents and education advocates.

Many consider this a significant step forward in ensuring equal learning opportunities and easing financial burdens on families.

A landmark moment for education

Universal free education is a common policy in many developed countries, guaranteeing equal access to knowledge for all members of society.

One reader remarked, "Education is the foundation of development. This decision not only supports families but also broadens learning opportunities for all students, paving the way for a fair and sustainable education system."

Tran Thi Lam Anh, a mother in Dong Hung District, Thai Binh, was thrilled to learn that her three children in secondary school would be exempt from tuition fees starting next year.

"Tuition isn’t too high, but there are so many other expenses. For freelance workers like us, every bit of financial relief is welcome," she said.

Nguyen Van Nam from Hoang Mai District, Hanoi, shared similar sentiments. "My wife and I are factory workers. We pay over 300,000 VND ($12) per month in tuition for our two children. While it’s not a huge amount, it adds up alongside other expenses. This policy is truly compassionate for families like ours."

Even parents who do not benefit directly from the policy support it wholeheartedly. Duc Minh, a father in Ho Chi Minh City whose two children attend private school, became emotional upon hearing the news.

"This is a fantastic policy that reflects the government’s commitment to education as a top national priority. Regardless of whether my children attend public or private schools, they will thrive in an environment where education is valued and accessible to all," he explained.

Readers of VietNamNet also expressed overwhelming support for the policy. One parent commented, "This is wonderful! I have three children in school, and this tuition exemption will significantly ease our financial strain. It’s a responsible and forward-thinking decision for the future generation."

Another reader, Tran Hieu, noted, "Students will no longer be pressured into extra classes, and their regular school lessons will be tuition-free. This is a groundbreaking improvement for the education sector."

Phan Vinh echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that free tuition would ensure no child is left behind due to financial hardship.

"This policy guarantees that every child, regardless of their family’s financial situation, can attend school," he wrote.

Pham Hai Linh highlighted how parents across Vietnam had long hoped for such a policy. "Previously, only cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hai Phong offered tuition-free schooling, leaving other parents envious. Now, that dream has come true for everyone."

Concerns and future expectations

Despite the widespread support, some parents have raised concerns. One key issue is the disparity between public and private schools.

"Free tuition for public schools is great, but what about students in private institutions? Many attend private schools because public schools are overcrowded. Will there be any support for them?" a reader asked.

Huu Phuoc from Ho Chi Minh City also questioned whether students in vocational and continuing education centers would benefit.

"Not all students continue to high school after finishing secondary school. I hope this policy extends to those in alternative education programs as well," he said.

Others pointed out that tuition fees are just one part of the total cost of schooling.

"Tuition might be a few hundred thousand dong per month, but expenses for meals, uniforms, textbooks, and extra classes remain a major burden. It would be even better if these costs were also reduced," one reader suggested.

Some parents emphasized the need for expanded public school infrastructure. "Major cities like Hanoi are already struggling with overcrowded public schools. While free tuition is excellent, ensuring enough schools and classrooms for all students is just as important," one commenter noted.

Additionally, many parents hope the government will consider financial support for higher education. "University tuition fees are still very high compared to average incomes. Many talented students with strong aspirations cannot afford to continue their studies, which is a loss for both them and society," a reader shared.

Overall, the tuition-free education policy is widely seen as a well-received and timely initiative, demonstrating the government’s commitment to education. While challenges remain, most believe this is a positive step toward a more inclusive and progressive education system.

As one parent optimistically put it, "With continued improvements each year, in five to ten years, financial pressures related to education and housing will ease, allowing families to confidently plan for the future."

Hoang Thanh - Hoang Linh