The current fourth COVID-19 wave prompted 26 out of 63 cities and provinces to switch to online learning as part of measures to contain the spread of the virus.

The Ministry of Education and Training estimated that about 7.35 million students have to use essential equipment for online learning such as computers, tablets and televisions. Of these around 1.5 million students cannot afford computers to follow virtual learning.

In many disadvantage areas, some 50-70 percent of students lack of online learning equipment or even internet access, said the ministry.

More than 70,000 students in Ho Chi Minh City cannot afford computers, the ministry added.

In response to the above situation, the ministry launched a campaign to mobilize donations to support children who are living in difficulty with equipment for online learning./.