Vietnam to Release Textbook on Physical Education for First Time

Ms. Nguyen Minh Thuyet, editor in chief of the curriculum for comprehensive education reforms, has affirmed the publishing of the physical education (PE) textbook to ensure the harmonization throughout the curriculum, local media reported. PE subject textbook, the first of its kind in Vietnam, will focus on training athletic skills and developing fitness through physical contents, including team exercises, sports games, skills, and injury prevention. Besides, the subject will be divided into two phases. While the basic education instructs students to improve health, body hygiene, and physical strength, the career-oriented education continues developing skills through sports. Notably, students are allowed to pick the activities and career orientations based on their physical strengths and the school's responsiveness. The PE subject will also integrate knowledge for other areas, and add music to boost excitement for students. Some Vietnamese experts expressed their concerns that the physical textbook is unnecessary for students. Others supported the move by giving an example of Japanese secondary school’s PE textbook. (Giao Duc Thoi Dai, news.zing, Thanh Nien, VTV, Dan Tri, Tien Phong)