A lack of textbooks and language teachers are just two of various factors leading to problems for those wanting to learn Russian.
The biggest difficulty, however, is that the language has largely fallen out of fashion.
"For many years, there have only been a few students learning Russian after secondary school. So we have been faced great difficulties attracting students. We hope that Russian language will become one of the optional subjects at secondary level." - Nguyen Bich Nguyen, Teacher, Tran Phu High School, Hai Phong Province.
In recent years, learning and teaching of Russian has also seen few improvements. Classes focus heavily on grammar, and have failed to meet the requirements of employers. Many universities have gradually changed their curricula, making the lessons more relevant to real life.
"We currently lack tour guides and hotel staff who are well versed in Russian. So we’re now focusing on training in these two fields. Ninh Thuan Province recently asked us to train staff in nuclear energy." - Vu Thanh Tam, Head, Russian Language Department, University of Foreign Language Studies, Danang City.
"To further boost Russian, we have encouraged the promotion and renewing of our teaching methods. We should also strengthen ties with foreign partners to work out practical curriculums." - Nguyen Vinh Hien, Deputy Minister of Education.
Russia is also helping Vietnam in improve the teaching of Russian.
"In just a few weeks, we will reopen the Russian language Centre with two leading experts. They’ll be using new textbooks and new teaching methods and are very willing to share their expertise with local high schools and universities." - Elena Zubsova, Director, Russian Center for Culture and Science.
The Puskin Institute is now piloting activities to support the teaching and learning of Russian, such as opening a club for Russian lovers, and using online platforms. Cultural exchanges and summer camps will also promote the language amongst Vietnamese students.
