Vietnam’s Safe School Zones Guide (SSZ Guide), developed by the AIP Foundation and the Vietnamese Government with support from the FIA Foundation, has been implemented for the first time in Ho Chi Minh City.

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Transport and Traffic Safety Committee inaugurated the first school zone modifications carried out at four project schools using the Guide in an event attended by FIA Foundation Executive Director Saul Billingsley.

The four project schools were selected following a city-wide assessment by students through the AI&Me programme using the Youth Engagement App (YEA), through which a total of 57 schools were identified as requiring critical safety upgrades. The majority of schools in the city received 1 or 2-star safety ratings.

“The AI&Me program embodies the power of collaboration, especially with our youth, who have proven that they are passionate about playing a role in improving the safety and well-being of their peers. In parallel, the Safe School Zones Guide is a vital tool that will help us implement vital changes to better protect the thousands of students who rely on our roadways every day,” said Nguyen Thanh Loi, Deputy Director of the Special Division of Ho Chi Minh City Traffic Safety Committee.

The Vietnamese Prime Minister announced Directive No. 31/CT-TTg, which calls for relevant agencies to review and amend Vietnam’s current technical standards and regulations for safer school zones, at the end of 2023. The Ministry of Transport has also instructed all 63 Vietnamese provinces to assess, report, and develop school zone action plans.

“Together with the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Transport, the Traffic Safety Committee, and the invaluable support of AIP Foundation, we are not merely renovating infrastructure; we are solidifying a culture of safety and empowerment for every student at the project schools. With each school zone modification, we inch closer to realising the vision outlined in Directive No. 31/CT-TTg of the Prime Minister of Vietnam, ensuring a future where every journey is a safe one for every school student across Vietnam,” said Saul Billingsley, FIA Foundation Executive Director.

The modifications around the four project schools (Le Quy Don Secondary School, Tran Quang Khai High School, Phu Lam Primary School, and Mac Dinh Chi High School) have included new pedestrian traffic lights, raised crosswalks, rumble strips, separated footpaths, road signs, and markings. The changes also encourage families to walk and ride their bicycles to school, paving the way for healthier and greener transportation.

For all students across Ho Chi Minh City, these modifications will not only safeguard them on their journeys to school but also ensure that all pupils have safe and equitable access to education and life opportunities. Building upon the project’s assessment results, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Transportation will develop a plan to improve infrastructure for other school zones in the city.

"Today's unveiling of school zone modifications at Le Quy Don Secondary School signifies practical adjustments to safeguard the welfare of students, educators, and families. Allocating resources towards enhancing school zone safety infrastructure, as demonstrated today, is an essential measure in securing the safety and success of our future generations," said Mirjam Sidik, Chief Executive Officer at AIP Foundation.