March 2026: Supporting Curriculum and School Practice in the Asia-Pacific Region
Across the Asia-Pacific, we are seeing a shared focus on the practical foundations that support teaching and learning. Systems throughout the region are working to strengthen teacher capability, clarify curriculum pathways, and address operational pressures tied to growth and safety. Here are some recent stories that highlight ongoing efforts to maintain consistency and capacity while planning for the year ahead.
VnExpress: Vietnam to assess English skills of over 1 million teachers nationwide
Vietnam’s Ministry of Education and Training has announced a nationwide English proficiency assessment for teachers, including those in English language instruction and across other subjects where English is used. The half-day assessment, planned for April 2026, will measure four core skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—with results intended to inform future teacher training programmes.
Korea Herald: Seoul to establish new special education schools in 2026
Seoul’s education authorities have announced plans to open new special education schools in 2026 to expand provision for students with disabilities. This initiative is intended to address capacity gaps and improve access to specialised support across the city’s school system. The new schools will be part of broader planning to strengthen inclusive education and respond to rising demand for special education placements.
VnExpress: Vietnam accepts Korean language proficiency for university admissions
The Ministry of Education and Training will allow students to use Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) results in place of the foreign language component of Vietnam’s national secondary school graduation exam. Students achieving Level 3 or higher on TOPIK will be exempt from that elective exam requirement as part of university admissions for the cohort entering in September 2026.
Tuổi Trẻ News: Thousands of new classrooms in Ho Chi Minh City set to open in early 2026
Construction of school facilities in Ho Chi Minh City is being accelerated ahead of the new academic year, with multiple primary and junior high school projects nearing completion. New classrooms and functional learning spaces are expected to become operational in early 2026, expanding capacity to meet rising enrolment.
VnExpress: Seminar examines Finnish education philosophy and leadership approaches in Vietnam
A seminar titled “Finnish Education Bridge: From Collaboration to Leadership” was held in Ho Chi Minh City, bringing together Finnish and Vietnamese educators and leaders to discuss educational leadership, governance, and practice. Sessions explored aspects of Finnish education philosophy, including school autonomy, professional trust, and the development of learning communities.