HÀ NỘI — Deputy Prime Minister Vũ Đức Đam visited several schools, medical facilities and tourist sites in Hà Nội on May 31 as part of the Government’s routine inspection aimed at improving sanitation standards in public places around the city.

The deputy PM visited the Temple of Literature, the Thăng Long Imperial Citadel, Đặng Trần Côn Primary School, Thanh Xuân Bắc Kindergarten School, Thanh Xuân Secondary School and Thanh  Xuân Ward’s local clinic.

Đam talked to people working at the sites, saying that sanitation standards play an important role in building a society’s image, especially among visitors. Sanitation in public places is, therefore, no small matter, but something that management of such facilities must pay attention to.

“Some places even hire janitors to work around the clock, but it’s still not up to standard. It is clear that people’s attitude in keeping places clean is the most important factor in play here,” Đam said.

He urged Hà Nội, as well as other localities, to make public sanitation a priority, especially in schools, hospitals and tourism sites.

While acknowledging there have been improvements in recent years in public schools’ sanitation standards, the deputy PM said in many schools it still remains almost a dreaded topic among students.

He said teachers must set themselves as examples for students to follow and students should participate in keeping their schools clean. It is the only way for them to learn and respect the value of hard work.

“Teachers and parents must work together to cultivate a habit for students to be self-organised and be responsible for their environment,” he said.

Đam said building students’ character with simple tasks such as these are just as important as gaining technical knowledge. — VNS