Vietnam’s Minister of Science and Technology Vu Hai Quan has voiced support for limiting, and possibly banning, artificial intelligence use among younger students. He argues that excessive reliance on AI could weaken independent thinking, creativity and critical reasoning.

Outside the classroom, students can directly use AI platforms to get instant answers or generate whole essays. The minister warned that this may deny them chances to think independently and develop critical thinking, creativity and self‑learning skills.

The Ministry of Science and Technology has divided AI risks into high, medium and low categories, and has set up safety mechanisms for each level, Minister Quan explained. He also noted that several countries have recently started to restrict, and in some cases ban, students from using AI. These observations shape his view that restrictions for younger learners are worth considering.

Deputy Pham Van Hoa warned that AI can be misused for fraud, such as forging signatures, images, voices and handwriting, and that students are already using it to cheat on exams, complete assignments and infringe copyright. He added that Vietnam’s capacity to assess AI systems is limited, ranking 45th in the 2025 Government AI Readiness Index and lacking independent verification and technical standards for high‑risk AI. Minister Quan responded that legislation and technical safeguards alone are not enough; families must also play an active role. He urged parents to spend more time with their children, show interest in their lives and keep regular communication to make AI deception harder.

The minister’s message is clear: limiting AI for young students requires both regulatory action and strong family involvement. Protecting children’s ability to think for themselves depends on combined efforts from government, schools and parents.