As the country works to make English a second language in schools, digital access and teachers' ability to use these tools effectively are becoming an important part of that effort.
Vietnam is implementing the project approved under Decision No. 2371 to make English the second language in schools. It calls for stronger digital infrastructure and wider use of AI and learning technologies. In the classroom, teachers are already exploring how these tools can support language learning.
Mrs. Nguyen Ha Linh, an English Teacher at Archimedes Academy, Hanoi, said: "I use different tools for different activities in my classes. Normally, AI tools can help me provide more input, organise interactions, collect immediate feedback, and differentiate support and even extend the learning beyond the classroom."
Wider use of these tools, however, requires systematic teacher training. The Vietnam National Innovation Center, or NIC, is working with schools, experts and technology companies to support that process.
Mr. Do Tien Thinh, Deputy Director of the Vietnam National Innovation Center, said: "We organise AI training for teachers and students, allowing them to learn directly from technology companies and experts. Successful pilot courses are then expanded, with the training programmes adapted for use in schools."
One initiative is a partnership between NIC and Canva, which aims to train more than 30,000 teachers in 2026 and expand free access to its education platform.
Mr. Lam Trung Quan, Country Manager of Canva Vietnam, said: " We are also improving our technology so it can be used more easily in areas with limited internet connectivity and equipment, while working with local partners to provide training for teachers."
Experts say wider access must be matched by the skills to integrate these tools effectively into teaching.
Dr. Ton Quang Cuong, Dean of the Faculty of Educational Technology, VNU University of Education, said: "If English is to become a second language in schools, we need to redesign the learning experience. We should not train teachers simply to become better technology users. The future of education will not be decided by who has the most powerful AI tool, it will be decided by who can design the most meaningful learning experience with AI. We must invest in people's pedagogy and purpose. Transformation is about using technology to put more opportunity into every learner's hands."
As these initiatives expand, the challenge is to ensure teachers have the support to turn digital resources into more opportunities for students to use English./.
