Below is a reflection by Dr. Vu Thi Minh Huyen of the Vietnam Academy of Traditional Medicine and Pharmacy on the significance of the Teacher Law, including her suggestions for its implementation to bring lasting benefits to educators nationwide.

For the first time, Vietnam has passed a dedicated law for the teaching profession. For the first time, the legal status and rights of teachers are clearly and fully recognized within the public service system. The Teacher Law is more than a legislative step forward - it is a profound tribute to those who have tirelessly "sown the seeds of knowledge and nurtured generations" across the country.

Affirming teachers’ roles and granting them deserving rights

Passed by the National Assembly on June 16, the Teacher Law introduces major preferential policies: teachers will now receive top-tier salaries within the public administrative system, allowances based on region and specialization, and the education sector will have the autonomy to recruit personnel. Those teaching in remote areas, special education institutions, or specialized fields will enjoy additional or combined policy benefits.

Significantly, teachers are entitled to full-paid summer breaks, wellness recovery leave, ongoing training, and legal protection of their dignity and honor. For the first time, acts of abuse or violence against teachers are explicitly prohibited by law.

As a public education official, I understand the immense pressure teachers face today. A revamped curriculum, new textbooks, innovative teaching methods, and mounting administrative duties have left many educators exhausted and disoriented. Incidents of abuse, school violence, and social media criticism have further destabilized the profession.

In this context, the Teacher Law acts as a much-needed “mental boost” - a legal backbone that reassures educators they are no longer alone or neglected.

Across forums, social media, and schools, there is a wave of excitement as teachers feel genuinely understood by the State. For the first time, educators’ emotions are acknowledged by the law. For the first time, their sense of professional support is backed not just by kind words, but by concrete legislation.

Making teaching an attractive profession again

In recent years, education schools have struggled to attract top students, with many graduates switching careers. One deep-rooted cause is the lack of appropriate compensation.

If effectively implemented, the Teacher Law could reverse this trend. With competitive salaries, attractive allowances, and protected work environments, talented individuals will be drawn back to teaching. This is essential for retaining and enhancing a high-quality workforce - key to the success of education reform.

The law will bring tangible benefits to teachers.

First, it will secure stable income and living conditions, enabling teachers to remain committed to the profession. It also spells out allowance policies tailored to geographic and job-specific challenges, ensuring fairness and encouraging long-term dedication, especially in disadvantaged regions.

Beyond financial gains, the law defines teachers’ rights, responsibilities, and working conditions, offering stronger legal protection in professional relationships. Importantly, creating a respectful and professional work environment will enhance the social standing of teachers - something long overdue for formal recognition.

From policy to reality: The need for synchronization and resolve

However, the success of the Teacher Law depends not only on its content but on how it is implemented. To ensure its effectiveness, detailed guidance documents must be issued promptly, with sufficient budget allocations - especially for salaries and allowances - to avoid a situation where the law remains on paper. Local authorities must ensure transparency in disbursing benefits, particularly in difficult areas, expedite recruitment, and guarantee sufficient qualified teaching staff.

Moreover, the law should be widely publicized, included in teacher training programs, and supported by feedback and adaptation mechanisms. Integrating the Teacher Law into professional development courses will help teachers understand their rights and responsibilities, empowering them to uphold and defend those rights effectively.

It’s also crucial to create opportunities for professional development and regulate private tutoring practices to prevent abuses and preserve the dignity of the profession.

As someone in the field, I deeply appreciate the significance of this law - not merely as a policy shift, but as timely recognition from the State. I hope it inspires teachers across the country to remain passionate, innovative, and steadfast in their calling.

With these recommendations, I hope the Teacher Law will soon take root in daily life, bringing real benefits to millions of teachers and students nationwide.

Vu Thi Minh Huyen