Hanoi:The Ministry of Education and Training (MOET), along with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in Viet Nam, has unveiled a comprehensive national assessment of health and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) conditions in 8,159 schools. This initiative aims to guide actions under the Government's Program on School Health 2026–2035.

According to Socialist Republic of Vietnam Government News, the survey included two key assessments one focusing on school health policies and practices in 959 schools, and another on access to WASH services in over 8,000 schools nationwide. Additionally, consultations were conducted with 284 children across six regions in Viet Nam.

The findings indicate both progress and areas needing improvement. Notably, 93.7 percent of the surveyed schools provide periodic health examinations, and 86 percent have basic WASH services. However, challenges remain, such as the need for better support for students with chronic health conditions and improved services for children with disabilities and girls.

MOET Vice Minister Dr Nguyen Thi Quyen Thanh emphasized the survey's role in tracking progress and guiding government priorities. WHO Representative Angela Pratt highlighted the importance of data-driven decisions in school health policies. UNICEF's Silvia Danailov pointed out the need for closing gaps in accessibility and hygiene, particularly in rural areas.

The workshop that followed the survey's release aimed to create a roadmap for policy implementation, focusing on improving children's health, well-being, protection, and learning outcomes across Viet Nam.