Vietnam brings traditional arts into schools

Hundreds of students and teachers at Quynh An Primary School in Hung Yen Province perform a song inspired by chèo, a traditional Vietnamese folk theatre form. The performance celebrates their school and hometown, bringing local cultural heritage closer to young learners.

Duong Dieu Linh, a student at Quynh An Primary School in Hung Yen Province, said: "I've learned several traditional cheo melodies, and I really enjoy performing them. I'm very happy to take part in this traditional art form"

At the start of the 2026-2027 school year, Hung Yen’s education authorities launched an initiative to promote traditional arts in schools. The initiative aims to give students at all levels of education opportunities to experience and practise traditional art forms suited to their age.

Ha Thi Phuong, deputy director of the Hung Yen Department of Education and Training, said: "We want all students, from preschool to high school, to be able to sing or perform at least one traditional melody or dance, such as cheo or northern Vietnamese folk songs."

Meanwhile, in Ho Chi Minh City, don ca tai tu, a traditional form of southern Vietnamese music, has been incorporated into regular lessons at Bui Thi Xuan High School.. Traditional artists are now taking on the role of teachers, guiding students through rhythm, timing and the distinctive vocal techniques of the music.

Huynh Thanh Phu, principal of Bui Thi Xuan High School in Ho Chi Minh City, said: "We hope students will develop a passion for this art form and help preserve it for future generations."

By bringing traditional artists into classrooms, schools are helping students connect with their heritage through firsthand experience. And with every melody learned and every rhythm practised, a new generation is discovering the value of traditions that can be passed on for years to come.