A Raising Futures: Combating Outdated Norms Through Education in Vietnam
In many rural and mountainous areas of Vietnam, especially in ethnic minority communities, traditional practices still hold a central position in social life, shaping how the community views the role, rights, and status of children. Practices such as early marriage, son preference, spiritual rituals for newborns, and the belief that “spare the rod, spoil the child” are not only considered cultural norms but are also closely tied to moral values and community honor. Education in Vietnam has emerged as a critical tool for combating outdated social and cultural norms, creating pathways for a more inclusive and equitable future. This paper examines how national reforms and local initiatives have addressed entrenched practices such as rigid gender roles, rote learning, ethnic exclusion, and hierarchical teacher-student relationships. At the systemic level, the adoption of competency-based curricula and participatory assessments has marked a significant departure from traditional rote memorization and exam-focused evaluation, fostering critical thinking and creativity. Furthermore, investments in inclusive education, including bilingual approaches for ethnic minority students, highlight Vietnam’s efforts to promote cultural respect and equity. These combined strategies reflect a broader educational transformation that not only improves learning outcomes but also reshapes societal values, equipping future generations to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Keywords: Outdated Norms, Education, Vietnam
