Binh Duong province is making significant strides towards universal preschool education for children aged 3 to 4 years, building on the success of its existing programs for 5-year-olds. Over recent years, the province has successfully established a strong foundation for preschool education, ensuring that all 5-year-old children have access to early learning opportunities. Now, local officials are gearing up to extend these benefits to younger children, a move that is seen as both a necessity and a responsibility for the future of education in the region.
According to Ms. Truong Hai Thanh, Deputy Director of the Department of Education and Training (DoET) in Binh Duong, the effort to universalize preschool education for 3 to 4-year-olds is not just a task but a vital commitment to enhancing the educational landscape of the province. "This initiative will ensure that every child has the right to early education, laying a solid foundation for their overall development," she stated.
The province has been actively working to expand its network of both public and private kindergartens, with numerous new facilities being built to meet educational standards. These modern schools are equipped with essential learning materials and conducive environments for children. The rapid development of new urban areas in Binh Duong has also facilitated the establishment of contemporary preschools that cater to the growing demand for educational services.
Currently, Binh Duong boasts a workforce of over 7,800 preschool teachers, with more than 61% of them meeting the required educational standards. Notably, over 44% of these educators have qualifications that exceed the basic requirements. The DoET regularly organizes professional development programs to help teachers enhance their skills and adapt to the evolving needs of preschool education.
The local government has also implemented specific policies to support preschool education, such as Resolution No. 09/2021/NQ-HDND, which highlights the administration's commitment to fostering the growth of early childhood education. This resolution aims to create a more favorable environment for both teachers and students, ensuring that preschool education receives the attention it deserves.
As of now, Binh Duong has achieved the standards for universal preschool education for 5-year-olds. This success provides a solid foundation for the province's upcoming initiatives aimed at integrating 3 to 4-year-olds into the educational system. Recognizing the importance of early education, both public and private kindergartens are investing in improving their facilities and teaching methods to create a child-centered learning environment.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Thuy Ngoc, Principal of Hoa Hong 3 Kindergarten in Di An City, shared her optimism about the initiative: "In recent school years, we have maintained a 100% enrollment rate for 5-year-olds. This achievement is a crucial stepping stone towards our goal of universalizing education for 3 to 4-year-olds. If implemented effectively, this will significantly enhance the quality of preschool education in our region."
In Thuan An City, where the population is rapidly increasing, preparations for universal preschool education are also underway. The local Department of Education and Training reported that in the 2023-2024 school year, the enrollment rate for 5-year-olds reached 100%, while the rate for 3 to 4-year-olds stood at 81.8%. The department is working diligently to improve facilities and ensure that schools can accommodate the growing number of students.
To support this initiative, local schools are collaborating with community organizations to encourage enrollment among families, while also updating management software to streamline the process. The local government is also focusing on land allocation for building new classrooms in densely populated areas, as well as promoting the establishment of private kindergartens to alleviate pressure on public schools.
With the unwavering commitment from the education sector, along with strong support from local authorities and the community, Binh Duong is well-positioned to achieve its goal of universal preschool education for 3 to 4-year-olds in the near future. However, challenges remain, particularly in terms of infrastructure and teacher availability. To effectively implement this ambitious plan, the education sector must continue to collaborate with various stakeholders to secure adequate resources and facilities.
As of April 2025, Binh Duong has 442 kindergartens, comprising 104 public and 338 private institutions, along with 729 independent children's groups. The province aims to increase the enrollment rate for 3 to 4-year-olds by 1 to 2% compared to the previous school year, demonstrating its commitment to expanding access to early education.
In conclusion, Binh Duong's proactive approach to universal preschool education for younger children signals a significant investment in the future of its youth. With ongoing efforts to enhance facilities, recruit qualified teachers, and promote early learning, the province is on track to create a robust educational environment that nurtures the potential of every child.
