Ho Chi Minh City education authority proposes $27 swimming subsidy for each student

The proposal targets elementary, middle, and high school students, as well as learners in continuing education programs at both public and private institutions.

Each student would receive support for one swimming course of up to 16 sessions, including 15 lessons and one assessment.

For schools without swimming facilities, transportation costs to external pools would also be subsidized, capped at VND20,000 ($0.8) per student per round trip, reimbursed with valid receipts.

The department said that Ho Chi Minh City has already implemented water safety education through physical education programs, extracurricular activities, and partnerships with swimming service providers.

However, the city’s geography with numerous canals, rivers, and lakes as well as growing demand for water activities make swimming skills essential for risk prevention.

A survey found that out of 1,651 schools in the city, only 182 had swimming pools as of July this year, representing just 11 percent.

None of the continuing education centers had pools.

Many schools must rent external swimming facilities and arrange transportation for students.

Statistics show the southern metropolis is home to more than 2.1 million students, with over 1.2 million, or nearly 60 percent, unable to swim.

Without a unified subsidy, access to safe swimming lessons depends heavily on family finances and school resources, limiting opportunities for disadvantaged children.

The department argued that local budget support would ensure equal access, reduce burdens on parents, and contribute to social welfare, school safety, and drowning prevention.

Drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental fatality among children in Vietnam.

According to the Ministry of Health, more than 2,000 child fatalities due to drowning are reported annually, especially during summer and rainy seasons.

Drowning is preventable if families and schools raise awareness and equip children with swimming and water safety skills.