A swimming class for students in the central province of Nghệ An. — VNA/VNS Photo Bích Huệ

HÀ NỘI — By 2030, as many as 70 per cent of students in Việt Nam are expected to be taught swimming and water survival skills, with this figure projected to rise to 90 per cent by 2035.

This objective is part of a programme aimed at enhancing education and combating drowning during the 2025-2035 period, recently approved by Deputy Prime Minister Lê Thành Long.

The programme sets an ambitious goal of ensuring that, by 2030, 95 per cent of school managers, teachers, students, parents, and other stakeholders receive training to improve their awareness, knowledge, and responsibility in preventing drowning among students. This rate is targeted to reach 100 per cent by 2035, highlighting the programme's comprehensive approach to drowning prevention.

In terms of safe and effective swimming education, the programme outlines specific targets for students at different grade levels. By 2030, at least 55 per cent of fifth graders, 65 per cent of ninth graders, and 75 per cent of 12th graders are expected to know how to swim safely. By 2035, these rates are projected to increase to 70, 80, and 90 per cent, respectively, reflecting a clear focus on equipping students with essential life-saving skills.

Regarding investment in the construction and installation of swimming pools in schools and communities, the goal is that by 2030, at least 20 per cent of primary schools, 15 per cent of junior secondary schools, and 15 per cent of senior schools will have swimming pools (fixed or mobile) and maintain effective operations. Fifty per cent of communes, wards, and towns will have at least one swimming pool serving the local community.

The programme targets that by 2035, the rate will be 30, 25 and 70 per cent, respectively.

As for giving teachers skills on drowning prevention and safe swimming techniques, the target is that by 2030, 70 per cent of managers and teachers will be trained, with the rate reaching 95 per cent by 2035.

By 2030, 85 per cent of school health workers will be trained to improve their capacity in drowning prevention and first aid, reaching 100 per cent by 2035.

Each school will have at least two teachers trained, certified and fully qualified to organise safe swimming lessons for students in 2030 and at least three by 2035.

The plan will be implemented in general schools, education centres, vocational schools nationwide, focusing on primary, junior secondary and communal levels.

The programme sets out a series of solutions, from education to investing in facilities and perfecting policies.

The Ministry of Education and Training is the standing agency charged with overseeing the policy. — VNS