The British Council’s Next Generation Vietnam survey finds that young people are extremely optimistic about where their country is headed but would like a bigger say in how things are run. — Photo courtesy of British Council Vietnam

HCM CITY — Young Vietnamese universally consider theirs to be a thriving country that offers ever-improving living conditions for all its people, a British Council study on their concerns and aspirations for the future has found.

Next Generation Vietnam is part of a series by the council to give voice to young people living in countries that have undergone significant social, economic or political change.

It polled over 1,200 Vietnamese between the ages of 16 and 30.

Through group discussions, workshops and face-to-face interviews, the report identifies priority issues affecting young Vietnamese like education and employment, environment, social life, and technology.

Respondents were optimistic about the increased education and employment opportunities, but expressed a desire for more practical training.

They were encouraged by Việt Nam’s expanding international outlook and ongoing modernisation, and were happy about progress in areas such as gender equality and economic growth.

Some of the main concerns highlighted in the report include young people’s perceived lack of voice in society and policy making forums.

Youth from all backgrounds said they largely feel unable to affect social change but are supportive of their government’s efforts to eradicate corruption, and expressed a desire for increased enforcement of anti-corruption laws.

The report also reveals divergent attitudes in different groups, such as urban and rural dwellers.

It raises concerns such as food safety, employment stability and environmental protection.

“This report comes at a critical time for young Vietnamese, who have experienced great change growing up in a rapidly developing country, and now find themselves facing the uncertainties of a world in the grip of a pandemic,” Donna McGowan, director of the British Council Vietnam, said.

Gareth Ward, the British ambassador to Vietnam, said: “Like young people in other countries, Vietnamese youth want further change.” 

Next Generation Vietnam provides a broad view of the vulnerabilities, struggles, motivations and aspirations of young Vietnamese, with chapters on social life and societal fabric; education, skills and employment; Vietnam in the world; and the future of Vietnam and priority issues. — VNS