The initiative is part of the nationwide “STEM Innovation Petrovietnam” programme, which aims to modernise teaching and learning by linking theory with practice and strengthening students’ hands-on experience.
In Gia Lai, the programme benefits Nguyen Du Secondary School, Nguyen Truong To High School No. 2 in Ia Nan Commune, and Quoc hoc Quy Nhon High School in Quy Nhon Ward.
According to project updates, many investment items at the two remaining schools are entering their final stages. Petrovietnam is coordinating closely with construction units, equipment suppliers and schools to ensure progress and quality meet planned targets.
Petrovietnam has earmarked a total budget of about VND 500 billion (approximately USD 20 million) to build 100 STEM classrooms nationwide by December 31, 2025. Each classroom is designed to international standards and equipped with modern facilities, machining tools, specialised equipment, themed learning kits, smart learning resources, and management and operational systems.
At Quoc hoc Quy Nhon High School, installation is proceeding on schedule. Alongside equipment setup, the school and contractors are completing technical checks, electrical infrastructure, internet connectivity, lighting and safety conditions to ensure stable operations. The STEM classroom is expected to become a modern learning hub that enhances teaching quality through experiential learning.
Nguyen Thi Ngoc Hoa, principal of Quoc hoc Quy Nhon High School, said the investment aligns with current education reform priorities. The school has developed plans to use the STEM classroom effectively, fostering an open learning environment that encourages exploration, innovation and participation in scientific research.
The impact of the programme is also extending to remote, mountainous and border areas. At Nguyen Truong To High School No. 2, teachers and students have expressed strong interest since construction began. Principal Truong Quang Man described the project as a valuable resource for border schools facing limitations in facilities and technology access, noting it is expected to transform teaching methods and help students develop scientific thinking from their first years of high school.
In Gia Lai alone, the programme has funded three STEM classrooms with a combined budget of about VND 10.5 billion (around USD 420,000). Nguyen Du Secondary School received an investment of VND 3.5 billion (about USD 140,000). Since becoming operational, its STEM classroom has provided students with access to robotics kits, programming tools, scientific models and laboratory instruments for science and technology subjects.
Students have responded positively. Nguyen Luu Gia Phuc, a Grade 8/9 student at Nguyen Du Secondary School, said the classroom allows students to practise, experiment and propose solutions linked to real-life situations, making subjects such as mathematics, natural sciences and informatics more engaging.
According to Bui Huu Nghia, principal of Nguyen Du Secondary School, the school is integrating the STEM classroom into interdisciplinary lessons and extracurricular activities, including robotics and science innovation clubs, while strengthening links with businesses and universities for technical support and technology transfer.
Meanwhile, Nguyen Truong To High School No. 2 has already sent teachers for STEM training, developed sample STEM topics and plans to establish a STEM club once the classroom is handed over. Nguyen Thi Duyen, a chemistry teacher, said staff are ready to adopt innovative teaching methods that combine theory with real-world application to inspire creativity and enthusiasm among students.
At Quoc hoc Quy Nhon High School, students see the STEM classroom as a milestone in educational innovation. Tran Hoang Vy, a Grade 12 student, said it could help develop critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving and teamwork skills, while opening new future pathways.
Speaking to reporters, Tran Quang Dung, Standing Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee of Petrovietnam, said STEM education enables students to integrate multiple fields of science and technology with practical learning. Through the programme, Petrovietnam aims to contribute to improving human resource quality to meet the country’s development needs, laying the groundwork for a more dynamic, creative and globally integrated young generation.
