UNESCO and CJ Group Expand Partnership to Boost STEAM Education for Girls in Vietnam
Hanoi, Vietnam – March 24, 2026 – UNESCO, the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training and CJ Group today announced the successful completion of Phase 2 and the launch of Phase 3 of the “We Can” project, an initiative aimed at promoting the inclusion of girls in learning across Vietnam. The event, held at the Hanoi University of Education, brought together approximately 1,000 delegates, including representatives from government agencies, partners, teachers, and students.
Project Impact and Phase 2 Achievements
Between 2023 and 2025, Phase 2 of the project reached over 8,000 students and families in the provinces of Cao Bang, Vinh Long, and Khanh Hoa. It also enhanced the skills of more than 650 teachers and mobilized 300 young leaders to champion inclusion and gender equality within schools and communities. The initiative contributed to national policy dialogue on reducing gender disparities in education.
Addressing the Gender Gap in STEAM Fields
Recognizing the growing demand for skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) in Vietnam, the project addresses the significant obstacles girls continue to face in participating, particularly within ethnic minority communities. Currently, women represent approximately 37% of the workforce in STEM fields, highlighting the urgent need for solutions to promote gender equality.
UNESCO’s Commitment to Gender Equality in Education
“Promoting gender equality in and through education is a fundamental priority for UNESCO,” stated Jonathan Wallace Baker, Head of the UNESCO Representation Office in Vietnam. “When girls have genuine opportunities to develop their skills, confidence, and leadership for the future through STEAM education, they can unlock their potential and contribute to the socio-economic development of their communities. Through the ‘We Can’ project, UNESCO is honored to collaborate with Vietnam in creating a learning environment where all students can shape and lead the future.”
Phase 3: Building a Connected Future Through STEAM
Over the next three years, Phase 3 of the project, titled “We Can Build a Connected Future: From Learning to Innovation through STEAM Education,” will support students, especially girls and learners from ethnic minority groups, in developing creative thinking, problem-solving skills, and the confidence needed to pursue careers in science, technology, and innovation.
Key Project Activities
The project will focus on three main areas of activity: strengthening the capacity of teachers and education administrators. expanding experiential learning opportunities for students; and fostering collaboration between schools and businesses, the innovation community, and women leaders in science and technology.
Government Support and National Integration
Vu Minh Duc, Director of the Department of Teachers and Educational Management Staff under the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training, stated, “Phases 1 and 2 of the project have yielded many positive results in terms of enhancing the skills of teachers and educational management staff, as well as promoting gender equality. In the future, we hope that content related to gender and equality will be officially integrated into teaching at teacher training institutions, in accordance with the National Strategy on Gender Equality 2021-2030, and in compliance with quality and efficiency standards.”
CJ Group’s Continued Commitment
Heekyung Jo Min, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at CJ Group, affirmed, “As we enter Phase 3, CJ remains committed to strengthening our partnership in this project, expanding access to quality learning opportunities, and supporting female students and students from ethnic minorities in developing the skills and confidence they need to succeed, particularly through STEAM education.”
Projected Reach and Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals
Approximately 6,000 students, including 3,000 girls, are expected to directly benefit from the project. This initiative contributes to Vietnam’s priorities of improving the quality of education, reducing gender disparities in science and technology, and developing the human resources needed for an innovative economy, while reaffirming that quality education is essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
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