The Ministry of Education and Training is piloting a new model of primary schools in 63 cities and provinces across the country.

New primary school model in Kon Tum Province

The new model helped deal with inadequacies in the educational field, engaging both students and teachers.

Under the new model, infrastructure is not considered the most important issue. It requires only a suitable environment for education, including decoration and friendly spaces.

However, the renovation of teaching methods is the most prominent in the issue. This would include changes in class organisation. Classes would be managed by a “students’ autonomous council” which is formed by several boards that are set up by students. The council facilitates students to be more proactive in their studies and activities. They also would be trained in rights and obligations in an educational environment, along with several "soft skills", such as leadership, participation and cooperation.

Students and teachers jointly design corners in the class themed on different issues like science, exchanges and recommendations, which facilitate teachers to better understand their students’ psychology.

Being a disadvantaged locality, the central highlands province of Kon Tum has faced several difficulties in enhancing education quality. However, the situation has improved since the piloting of the new primary school model.

Students become more confident at school

Students have become more confident at school, a fact verified by both teachers and parents.

Dang Nhat Hoang, father of a student at Ngo Quyen Primary School in Kon Tom City said, “My child has become more self-conscious in study and I can see his progress."

Nguyen Thi Nguyet, a teacher at Le Van Tam Primary School, said the model fosters students to become more confident, have more chances to communicate with their classmates, teachers and show their capacity.

Phan Viet Ha, a 4th grade student at Le Van Tam Primary School, said, “I’m very happy working in groups with my classmates to solve a problem."