Vietnam has set a goal to build semi-boarding schools to provide education for more ethnic minority children. This follows a request by Deputy Minister of Education and Training Nguyen Thi Nghia who called for construction of more semi-boarding schools in areas that have not yet had this kind of school. Some high-quality schools should be put into operation in the period between 2011 and 2012. She emphasized the necessity of building these schools by 2015, because it’s expected that more ethnic minority children will be in need of educational opportunities. The move is also hoped to reduce the number of truancies, improve quality of education as well as ensure that all secondary school age children will have a suitable education. In order to realize the goal, local authorities were told make the necessary preparation and planning for new semi-boarding schools in certain districts. Before enrollment, schools should work out specific criteria and regulations for semi-boarding school students. Nghia praised the northern province of Lai Chau for taking the lead in construction and operations of semi-boarding schools. (dtinews.vn Jan 21)
