- UNESCO, Hanoi National University of Education, and CJ Group launch new phase of We Are ABLE to promote gender-transformative STEAM education in Vietnam.
- Previous phase (2023-2025) reached 8,300+ students, trained 650+ teachers, and empowered 300 student leaders, especially from ethnic minority communities.
- New phase will benefit 6,000 students, focus on hands-on STEAM learning, teacher capacity building, and fostering school community-private sector collaboration.
UNESCO, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Training, Hanoi National University of Education, and CJ Group, has launched an exciting new phase of its We Are ABLE initiative to promote gender-transformative STEAM education in Vietnam. The launch event, held on 24 March, brought together nearly 1,000 participants, including educators, students, policymakers, and development partners from across the country, highlighting the growing collaboration between schools, communities, and the private sector in advancing inclusive education.
Building on the successes of Phase 2 (2023-2025), which reached more than 8,300 students in 15 lower secondary schools many from ethnic minority communities the initiative has strengthened the skills of over 650 teachers and empowered 300 student leaders to champion gender equality through advocacy and communication projects. Beyond these measurable results, the project has influenced national discussions around gender equality in education, emphasizing the importance of giving every student an equal opportunity to thrive.
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Participants at the event highlighted how the initiative has boosted students’ confidence and self-expression, particularly among girls, helping them believe in their abilities and actively contribute to change within their communities. Government officials also stressed the importance of sustaining these achievements by integrating gender equality more systematically into teacher training, school curricula, and everyday school practices, aligning with Vietnam’s National Strategy on Gender Equality 2021-2030.
The new phase, titled We Are ABLE for a Seamless Future: From Learning to Leading through STEAM Education, will focus on expanding hands-on learning opportunities, enhancing teacher capacity, and fostering collaboration between schools, communities, and private sector partners. Over the next three years, it is expected to directly benefit at least 6,000 students, including 3,000 girls, while equipping over 100 educators and counselors with gender-responsive teaching methods. Supported by CJ Group, the initiative reinforces the idea that empowering young learners today through STEAM education and inclusive learning is key to shaping a more equitable and innovative future for all.
