Vietnam’s “You can” Project: Pioneering STEAM Education for Girls and Ethnic Minorities
A collaborative effort between UNESCO, the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training, and CJ Group is entering its third phase, demonstrating a sustained commitment to bridging the gender and ethnic gaps in education. The “We Can” project, officially titled “We Can build a connected future: from learning to innovation through STEAM education,” is poised to impact thousands more students across Vietnam.
Addressing the STEAM Skills Gap and Gender Imbalance
Vietnam is experiencing growing demand for skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). However, significant barriers remain for girls, particularly those from ethnic minority groups, to fully participate in these fields. Currently, women comprise only around 37% of the workforce in STEM-related professions, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions.
The Impact of Phase 2: Building a Foundation for Success
Between 2023 and 2025, the second phase of the “We Can” project reached over 8,000 students and families in Cao Bang, Vinh Long, and Khanh Hoa provinces. This phase focused on strengthening the skills of over 650 teachers and mobilizing 300 young leaders to champion inclusion and gender equality within schools and communities. The project similarly contributed to national policy dialogue surrounding gender equality in education.
Phase 3: Fostering Creativity, Problem-Solving, and Innovation
The next three years will see the project concentrate on three key areas: enhancing teacher and educational administrator capacity, expanding experiential learning opportunities for students, and fostering collaboration between schools, businesses, innovation communities, and female leaders in science and technology. Approximately 6,000 students, including 3,000 girls, are expected to directly benefit from this initiative.
Integrating Gender Equality into Teacher Training
A key goal is to formally integrate gender and equality content into teacher training programs, aligning with Vietnam’s National Strategy for Gender Equality 2021-2030. This will ensure that future educators are equipped to create inclusive learning environments for all students.
The Role of Public-Private Partnerships
The “We Can” project exemplifies the power of public-private partnerships in driving educational reform. CJ Group has been a consistent supporter since 2019, providing financial backing and demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility. CJ Group will contribute $250,000 from funds raised through the CJ-UNESCO Girl Education Campaign to enhance teacher capacity.
Aligning with Sustainable Development Goals
This initiative directly supports Vietnam’s efforts to improve the quality of education, reduce gender disparities in science and technology, and develop a skilled workforce for an innovative economy. It also reinforces the importance of quality education in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Future Trends in Inclusive Education in Vietnam
The “We Can” project signals several emerging trends in education within Vietnam and beyond:
- Increased Focus on STEAM Skills: The demand for STEAM-related skills will continue to grow globally, necessitating a greater emphasis on these subjects in education systems.
- Targeted Interventions for Marginalized Groups: Recognizing that systemic inequalities exist, future programs will likely focus on providing tailored support to girls, ethnic minorities, and students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- The Rise of Public-Private Partnerships: Governments are increasingly collaborating with private sector companies to leverage their resources and expertise in addressing educational challenges.
- Integration of Gender Equality into Curriculum: A growing awareness of gender bias will lead to the integration of gender-responsive pedagogy and curriculum materials.
- Emphasis on Experiential Learning: Moving beyond traditional classroom instruction, educators will prioritize hands-on, project-based learning experiences that foster creativity and problem-solving skills.
FAQ
- What is the main goal of the “We Can” project? To promote gender equality and girls’ education for children in ethnic minority areas of Vietnam through STEAM education.
- Who are the key partners involved? UNESCO, the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training, and CJ Group.
- How many students are expected to benefit from Phase 3? Approximately 6,000 students, including 3,000 girls.
- What are the key areas of focus in Phase 3? Teacher capacity building, experiential learning, and collaboration between schools and industry.
Pro Tip: Supporting initiatives like “We Can” is an investment in the future. Consider donating to organizations that champion inclusive education and gender equality.
Learn more about UNESCO’s work in Vietnam here.
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