Vietnam to Provide Free Textbooks for Students by 2029

Photo courtesy of VN Express

The Ministry of Education and Training in Vietnam has proposed a draft decree to provide free textbooks for students starting from the 2029-2030 academic year, aiming to alleviate education costs and promote equitable learning opportunities. This initiative will utilize a shared library system funded by the state, allowing students and teachers to borrow textbooks—including Braille editions—for the duration of a semester or academic year. The proposed policy encourages local implementation prior to the nationwide rollout, especially in economically challenged regions.

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The draft decree also suggests providing free textbooks for the national defense and security education course at universities and vocational institutions starting in the 2027-2028 academic year. This will involve a library-based borrow-and-return mechanism, paired with a tuition fee exemption for these courses as of the same academic year. This tuition waiver will be financed by the State budget following the establishment of economic and technical cost norms in the 2026-2027 academic year.

State funding remains central to this initiative, with a call for additional support from organizations and individuals to bolster the efforts of educational institutions. The decree emphasizes the necessity for transparent management of textbook procurement and distribution, adhering to legal guidelines to prevent resource misuse.

Stakeholders appreciate the potential benefits, highlighting increased access to education for underprivileged communities. However, questions about implementation logistics and sustainable funding remain. Moving forward, the decree’s approval and efficient execution will be pivotal in achieving the intended outcomes of reducing disparities in education.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · VN Express · 01 Apr 2026