Bui Thi Xuan High School in Ho Chi Minh City has integrated traditional Southern Vietnamese folk music, known as đờn ca tài tử, directly into its official academic curriculum. Vietnam.vn reported that while the art form previously appeared only in extracurricular activities or holiday performances, it now occupies a dedicated weekly slot complete with regular testing and assessment protocols similar to other core subjects.
Principal Huynh Thanh Phu stated during the launch that the initiative aims to provide students with opportunities to learn about and preserve national cultural values. The program will pilot in three 11th-grade classes during the 2026-2027 academic year before expanding schoolwide. Instruction will be delivered by artisans and artists working with local theater and music organizations.
People’s Artist Thanh Tuyet noted that teaching this genre as a formal subject allows students to acquire skills and knowledge systematically, contrasting with previous instruction limited to local cultural centers. People’s Artist Tran Ngoc Giau added that embedding the course in the school schedule helps spread the art form among students, teachers, and parents. Students completing the year-long course will receive a certificate of completion following semester evaluations.
For more information, visit vietnam.vn.