Hanoi, June 25, 2026 – In a significant step toward elevating the teaching profession, Vietnam’s National Assembly officially passed the country’s first-ever Law on Teachers on June 16, 2026. The landmark legislation aims to strengthen the status, rights, and working conditions of teachers across the nation.
The new law, consisting of 9 chapters and 42 articles, marks the first time Vietnam has established a comprehensive legal framework dedicated specifically to teachers. It is expected to take effect on January 1, 2027.
Key Highlights of the New Law:
- Salary Reform: Teachers will be ranked at the highest level within the public service pay scale, reflecting the importance of their role in national development.
- Legal Protections: Stronger safeguards for teachers’ honor, dignity, and professional rights. The law includes measures to protect teachers from undue harassment and excessive administrative burdens.
- Equal Recognition: Teachers working in private educational institutions will receive the same professional status and benefits as those in public schools.
- Support for Disadvantaged Areas: Special policies to attract and retain qualified teachers in remote, border, and island regions through better incentives and working conditions.
- Professional Development: Enhanced regulations on training, recruitment, evaluation, and continuous professional development for teachers.
Party General Secretary and President Tô Lâm has emphasized the critical role of teachers in the country’s development, calling for reduced paperwork so educators can focus more on teaching and student development.
The law has received positive feedback from education experts and international organizations. UNICEF Vietnam welcomed the legislation as “a major advancement” that will contribute to improving education quality and supporting the next generation.
Context
Vietnam currently faces challenges including teacher shortages in certain regions and high workloads. The new law is seen as a comprehensive response to these issues and part of the country’s broader goal to modernize its education system and achieve international standards.
Education Minister Nguyễn Kim Sơn stated that the law represents a “new chapter” for Vietnamese teachers, promising better motivation and respect for the noble profession.
This historic legislation is expected to significantly boost morale among the more than 1.2 million teachers across Vietnam and contribute to long-term improvements in the quality of education nationwide.