In Vietnam, students who insult or assault teachers could face school suspension

A recent incident at a middle school in Hanoi has sparked public concern about how to address student misconduct.

In a video, a 7th-grade boy of Dai Kim Middle School is showed yanking a teacher’s hair as she is trying to retrieve a sharp toy that has been confiscated. Other students stand by without intervening.

The incident has reignited debate on handling misbehavior in schools, probably prompting lawmakers to draft a decree on administrative penalties in education.

Under Articles 26 and 28, the Ministry of Education and Training has proposed fines ranging from VND5 million (US$200) to VND10 million ($400) for students who insult or physically harm classmates, teachers, school administrators, or staff, in cases that do not constitute criminal offenses.

The draft requires offenders to issue a public apology unless the victim waives it.

In cases where the misconduct affects school safety or operations but does not constitute a criminal offense, students may be temporarily separated from their schools, transferred to specialized institutions, or sent for psychological or behavioral counseling, based on school recommendations and official approval.

The application of disciplinary measures would follow its guidance and involve coordination among schools, education authorities, families, health agencies, and, if necessary, the police.

The power to make final decisions lies with local education authorities or people’s committees at the commune or provincial level, depending on jurisdiction.

According to the ministry, the revisions aim to expand protection beyond teachers and administrators to include all school staff, while providing mechanisms to address acts of insult or physical aggression that fall short of criminal offenses but still disrupt the learning environment.

“Fines and public apologies alone are not enough to deter misconduct or provide timely support,” the ministry said.

“The new regulation allows for temporary separation, transfer to specialized institutions, or psychological counseling, ensuring both school safety and humane intervention to help students correct their behavior.”

The ministry added that the changes reflect an approach focused on education, rehabilitation, and support, rather than pure punishment.

In September, the ministry issued Circular 19 on student rewards and discipline, effective October 31, 2025, which limits the harshest penalty to a written self-reflection form, a move that has drawn public concern over its lack of deterrence in serious cases.