Vietnam elementary school principal suspended over alleged use of substandard food for student meals

Nguyen Thai Quynh Nga, head of Trung Vuong Elementary School, was placed on 15-day administrative leave starting Wednesday to facilitate an inquiry into the school’s boarding meal program, according to a statement from Xuan Huong - Da Lat Ward authorities.

The ward was formerly part of the old Da Lat City, which is no longer a district-level city following an administrative reorganization on July 1.

The probe was launched after parents and kitchen staff accused the school of allowing suppliers to deliver low-quality food, affecting meals for 720 students.

A local official has been assigned to oversee school operations during the suspension.

A parallel review of Party conduct is also underway involving Nga, who serves as the school’s Party Cell Secretary.

The school suspended its meal service on September 20 after suppliers withdrew.

Authorities are seeking a new vendor.

Provincial leaders, including Lam Dong’s People’s Committee chairman, have criticized delays in handling the case and ordered health and education departments to clarify responsibilities and food quality standards.

Xuan Huong - Da Lat Ward authorities have ordered a broader inspection of food safety practices across local education facilities.

An interagency task force began a 30-day review on September 22.