Ho Chi Minh City schools allowed to extend Lunar New Year break to 14 days

In a directive sent to schools under its management, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Education and Training said institutions could flexibly adjust their holiday schedules, provided the total break does not exceed two weeks and all curriculum requirements are met.

Under a decision by the municipal People's Committee, students are formally scheduled to be off for 11 days for the upcoming Lunar New Year, from February 12 to February 22, with classes resuming on February 23.

However, schools may allow students to begin their holiday earlier, potentially from February 9, depending on their academic plans, the department said.

Ho Tan Minh, chief of staff of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Education and Training, said schools could add up to three days before the official holiday period to enable students to participate in traditional family and cultural activities ahead of the Lunar New Year.

"Any additional days off must be arranged before the holiday," Minh said, adding that students at all levels must return to school on the seventh day of the Lunar New Year, February 23.

He said schools must still complete the required 35 weeks of instruction, testing and assessment, and ensure teaching quality and schedules remain in line with the city's overall education framework.

Vietnam's Lunar New Year, or Tet, is the country's most important holiday and typically involves extended travel and family gatherings.