Ho Chi Minh City warns language centers over teacher quality, especially foreign hires

At a meeting on Thursday, the city’s Department of Education and Training said some centers had hired foreign teachers who did not meet professional requirements, and used their images in promotional materials without proper approval.

Officials said this could mislead students and parents.

As of August, the city had recorded 1,961 licensed centers, including 158 with foreign investment.

During the 2024–25 academic year, these centers ran over 49,000 classes with nearly 269,000 enrolled students.

Education officials said some centers deviated from approved curricula, lacked clear learning outcomes, or advertised misleading claims.

Others were found operating outside the permitted scope, such as offering unlicensed childcare or summer programs.

Deputy director Truong Hai Thanh called on centers to ensure all teaching staff meet required standards, particularly foreign instructors.

She urged such centers to improve management, invest in facilities, and prioritize student safety.

The department plans to issue updated guidelines and encourage professional development through academic clubs.