Happy to no longer have head fees
The policy of exempting tuition fees for preschool and primary school students with an estimated budget of more than 30.6 trillion VND is a great effort of the State, demonstrating deep concern for social security. However, the effectiveness of this policy depends largely on how it is implemented in each locality. In Da Nang, one of the pioneering localities, this policy has really promoted its effectiveness, bringing clear relief to parents.
Talking to a reporter from Lao Dong Newspaper, Ms. Le Thi Lan Anh, a parent with two children studying at an elementary school in Hai Chau Ward, could not hide her joy: "This year is really a lot of responsibility. At my children's school, I do not have to pay any additional fees other than health insurance and personal insurance according to regulations. Programs such as enhanced English, IT, and school are all held on Friday afternoons, if you register, study, if not, go home, it is completely not mandatory and does not put any pressure.
Ms. Lan Anh added that what made her most satisfied was the school's determination in managing the fees. "Even the class fund, this year the school has thoroughly implemented the collection without following the general regulations of the city. We, the parents, really feel the care and sharing from the education sector, she said.
This joy also spread strongly to the families of workers and laborers. Ms. Nguyen Thi My Le, a worker working in Hoa Cam Industrial Park, has children in grades 3 and 6 in Que Son commune, Da Nang city, shared: "Our workers' income is not high, every beginning of the school year is a concern. But this year is completely different. In addition to the exempted tuition fees, each term I only pay about 200,000 VND for the voluntary class fund and insurance for my child. The English program at school is free during the regular hours. If I want my child to study more Math and Vietnamese, I will send him to study outside, the school does not organize and does not require him. This policy helps workers like us a lot to ease their hardships.
transparency from schools, reducing pressure on parents
In order for the tuition exemption policy not to be "generalized" by "connected" fees, the role of the heads of educational institutions is extremely important. The transparency, determination and putting the interests of students first are the keys to the success of the Da Nang model.
Ms. Luong My Hue, Principal of Tay Ho Primary School (Da Nang City), shared openly about how the school implements the fees, ensuring compliance with regulations and not creating pressure for parents. The school thoroughly grasps the direction of the city and the Department of Education and Training, absolutely do not overcharge and implement all services transparently, Ms. Hue affirmed.
Regarding boarding meals, one of parents' biggest expenses, Ms. Hue said: "The current tuition fee is 31,000 VND/day/student. This section includes lunch, bus meals, and all service expenses such as electricity, water, food staff, etc. This fee is built in accordance with the city's regulations and is clearly publicized for parents to grasp".
For enhancement programs, Tay Ho Primary School only organizes one activity: teaching English to foreigners. However, the way of organizing is completely different. This is a service program, organized after regular school hours and based on a completely voluntary spirit. Any parent who needs to register for their child to stay in school. The fee is 270,000 VND/month for 4 sessions, which has been developed by the school and submitted to the superiors for approval. We do not implement affiliate programs during regular school hours to avoid causing pressure and ensure fairness for all students, Ms. Hue emphasized.
