Implementation of Vocational Training Policy for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Hanoi City: Current Situation and Policy Implications

Abstract

Vocational training plays a crucial role in developing occupational skills, independent living capacity, and social integration among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Although Vietnam has issued numerous relevant policies, the implementation of vocational training policy for children with ASD in Hanoi remains limited. This article analyses the current state of policy implementation based on a study conducted at three vocational education and training centres in Hanoi. The findings indicate that, despite considerable efforts by these centres to organize training and support children in developing occupational skills, the policy framework still lacks specificity; the resources and implementation capacity of training institutions remain limited; and coordination among families, training institutions, enterprises, and other stakeholders in training delivery and employment linkage has yet to become systematic. On this basis, the article proposes three groups of solutions: i) Refining the policy framework to be more coherent, specialized, and responsive to the needs of children with ASD; ii) Strengthening implementation capacity through workforce development, curriculum innovation, and enhanced resources and vocational training services; and iii) Reinforcing interdisciplinary coordination and promoting the engagement of families, enterprises, and communities. These solutions are expected to improve the effectiveness of policy implementation, expand vocational training and employment opportunities, and foster sustainable independent living and social integration for children with autism spectrum disorder.

Keywords: Autism Spectrum Disorder, vocational training, vocational education, social policy.