(VOVWORLD) - Son La is Vietnam’s fifth city listed as a member of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities. It was the first disadvantaged mountain city in Vietnam recognized by UNESCO with this title last year.
 Houses of wisdom and compassion libraries have been set up in every hamlet across Son La city. |
The motto "Contribute one book to read many" has helped create 130 Houses of Wisdom and Compassion Libraries in Son La city.
This was a bright spot in Son La’s journey to become a learning city, said Phan Anh Huu, Party Cell Secretary and Head of Group 1 in Chieng Le ward, Son La city.
“The Houses of Wisdom and Compassion Libraries have welcomed a lot of people, especially the elderly and teenagers,” said Le.
Each hamlet’s House of Wisdom and Compassion Library, open from 8am to 8pm every day, attracts large numbers of people with thousands of books and and a friendly space.
Ngo Gia Huy of To Hieu ward in Son La city said, “Since the House of Wisdom was built, I often come to read books. In the afternoon we often play badminton.”
 Son La has applied various models to preserve and promote the cultural traditions of local ethnic groups. |
In the year that Son La city has been a member of the Global Network of Learning Cities, a highlight has been a class that teaches the Thai ethnic language and script. The class is held every weekend by the Thai culture club of Chau Co hamlet in Chieng Coi ward.
Tong Thi Hoa, one of the students, said, “I’m 65 years old this year, the oldest in the class. I never learned the Thai language. Now, thanks to the support of the government, the municipal administration, and lovers of the Thai culture, I’m attending this class regularly to learn the Thai language and Thai stories and songs so I can pass them on to my children and grandchildren.”
 Deputy Minister of Education and Training Pham Ngoc Thuong presents Son La provincial and municipal authorities a certificate recognizing Son La city as a global learning city. |
On its journey to become a global learning city, Son La received support from every family, clan, and community.
Cadres and Party members donated thousands of dollars. Son La city committed 34% of its budget to education, according to Ha Trung Chien, Secretary of the municipal Party Committee.
“Participating in the Global Network of Learning Cities, Son La is teaching people how to develop their economy, contribute to society, and preserve their culture. These tasks require the involvement of the entire political system and every citizen. We should do all we can to benefit the people and the development of Son La,” said Chien.
By the end of 2024, 90% of the schools in Son La city had met national standards. Local universities, colleges, and specialized educational institutions have given students at all levels the knowledge and skills needed to win prizes at national and international competitions. Son La is striving to win awards from UNESCO in the future.