THE INSTITUTIONALIZATION AND STANDARDIZATION OF VIETNAM’S NATIONAL EDUCATION SYSTEM FROM 1993 TO 2019

This article analyzes the transformative process of Vietnam’s national education system from 1993 to 2019, grounded in the theoretical framework of institutionalization and standardization within the context of transitioning to a socialist-oriented market economy and international integration. By employing a systematic analysis of legal and regulatory documents, the study elucidates the operational logic: from the creation of an institutional framework (originating from Decree 90/CP to the subsequent Education Laws), which served as the foundation for standardization mechanisms (curriculum, personnel, and infrastructure), to the eventual establishment of national governance models and quality assurance systems. The findings indicate that while institutionalization has shaped a unified legal corridor and standardization has expanded access to education, the existing governance model continues to reveal systemic limitations. A core bottleneck lies in the functional overlap between state management and institutional governance, alongside a tendency toward standardization driven by administrative compliance rather than the promotion of autonomy and innovation. Furthermore, the study identifies a “quality paradox,” in which high academic achievement in international assessments (PISA) has not been commensurately translated into practical workforce competencies for the labor market. Based on the evaluation of the 1993–2019 period as a “foundational standardization” phase, the article proposes a policy shift toward a modernization roadmap: transitioning from centralized governance to accountability-based governance, and from formalistic standardization to competency-based standardization, to meet sustainable development goals in line with the 2045 vision.