Da Nang Proposes Fee Caps for School Extracurriculars and Summer Programs

The city of Da Nang is moving to regulate and standardize fees for supplementary educational services in its public schools, a move that aims to balance the need for quality extracurricular activities with affordability for parents. The proposed fee structure, detailed in a new draft, targets services such as specialized classes, life skills training, and summer boarding programs for preschool and general education students.

Central to the proposal is the principle of voluntary participation and mutual agreement between schools and parents, documented in writing. This ensures that no parent feels coerced into paying for services their child may not need or that the family cannot afford. The fees are strictly intended to cover operational costs, including food and supervision, with a clear directive against any profit-making motive. This approach reflects a commitment to ensuring that educational support remains accessible and does not become a financial burden.

From Da Nang's perspective, this initiative is about fostering a more equitable and transparent educational environment. By setting maximum allowable rates, the city aims to prevent potential exploitation and ensure that parents receive value for their money. The proposed caps, such as 24,000 VND per lesson for specialized classes and 1 million VND per month for summer boarding, are designed to be reasonable within the local economic context. Furthermore, the provision for annual adjustments not exceeding 15% allows for flexibility while maintaining predictability for families. This measured approach underscores Da Nang's dedication to balancing educational enrichment with economic considerations for its citizens.