If you’re considering building an outsourced team in Vietnam, you’re probably wondering how you bridge the language barrier and what the Vietnamese education system is like? This blog will walk you through English education and English proficiency in Vietnam.
English proficiency levels in Vietnam
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EF English Proficiency Index ranking
Vietnam has made impressive strides in English proficiency over the past decade. According to the 2023 EF English Proficiency Index, Vietnam ranks at 58, out of 113 countries, which puts it in the moderate proficiency category. That puts it in front of countries like Mexico, India, China and only a few places behind South Korea.
The result indicated a strong improvement in English skills among its population. This ranking reflects the country’s commitment to enhancing language education as part of its broader economic strategy.
Demographics of English Learners in Vietnam
English education in Vietnam is widespread, with learners spanning various age groups. Students begin learning English in primary school, and many continue through secondary and higher education. The emphasis on English is particularly strong in urban areas, where access to qualified teachers and resources is more prevalent, ensuring a robust pipeline of English-speaking professionals.
In the context of this commitment, ‘English Proficiency’ means the ability to communicate effectively in English and understand complex texts, both orally and in writing. This has made sourcing an outsourced team in Vietnam climb higher in the ranks than ever before.
English Education in Vietnam
Strengthening English Skills
The Vietnamese government has prioritised English education as part of its national strategy. The National Foreign Languages 2020 Project (NFL2020) is a program by the Vietnamese government to improve English education. Its goal is to boost how foreign languages, especially English, are taught and learned at all school levels.
Recent changes are focused on improving teaching, hiring more English teachers, and using modern technology in language lessons. These steps show that the government knows that speaking English well is important for growing the economy and working with other countries.
English proficiency in Vietnam is commonly assessed through the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). These internationally recognised exams are essential for students seeking university placements in Vietnam, reflecting the government’s strong emphasis on English education.
To further enhance English education, Vietnam has established partnerships with various international educational institutions. These collaborations provide access to resources, training for teachers, and updated curricula that align with global standards. Such initiatives ensure that Vietnamese students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for international workplaces.
Cultural Adaptability
English education in Vietnam often includes cultural components, helping students understand Western customs and business practices. This cultural awareness fosters better collaboration with international clients and enhances the overall working relationship. As businesses seek culturally adaptable employees, this understanding becomes increasingly important in the outsourcing landscape.
Adaptability in Work Environments
Vietnamese workers are known for their adaptability and willingness to learn. This trait is particularly valuable in outsourcing scenarios, where employees must navigate diverse work environments and collaborate with teams from various cultural backgrounds. Their ability to adjust to different expectations and communication styles is a significant asset for companies looking to outsource.
This focus is particularly relevant for workers aiming to enter industries like Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), where English is the primary language. In the outsourcing sector, employees regularly interact with English-speaking clients, allowing them to continually practice and enhance their language skills. This means that English proficiency is not just learned in school and forgotten but applied daily in their work.
How English Boosts Outsourcing in Vietnam?
Vietnam’s Market Success Through Improved English Proficiency
A Deloitte report noted that the outsourcing sector in Vietnam grew by 20%-25% annually, driven by a workforce skilled in English. This proficiency, especially in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and IT sectors, allows Vietnamese workers to effectively communicate with English-speaking clients.
According to the International Labour Organization, Vietnam stands out as a cost-efficient outsourcing hub, with labour costs 20-30% lower than India and 40% lower than the Philippines Despite this, it excels in software development, customer support, and BPO services.
In 2023, Gartner ranked Vietnam among the top five outsourcing destinations for software development, with global tech giants like IBM, Intel, and Microsoft operating there. According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the country’s strategic location in Southeast Asia and projected 6% GDP growth (ADB) further boost its appeal, especially for accessing Asia-Pacific markets.
Away Digital Teams’ successful stories
Away Digital Teams has played a key role in helping numerous companies hire skilled staff in Vietnam, offering a seamless outsourcing experience. One of the company’s major clients, The Accent Group – a leading Australian and New Zealand footwear and clothing retailer, wholesaler, and distributor – successfully built a highly skilled remote team with the support of Away Digital Teams.
This partnership allowed them to tap into Vietnam’s vast talent pool, achieving cost-effective staffing without compromising on quality. Through these successful collaborations, Away Digital Teams has earned recognition as one of Australia’s Fastest Growing Startups in 2023, thanks to their effective talent acquisition and outsourcing model.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, if you are considering building an outsourced team in Vietnam you need to partner with a high quality, professional outsourcing provider who screens talent well, with a focus on English Language Proficiency. You need to be clear in your recruitment requirements and work with your provider every step of the way.
For more details on how we’ve helped businesses succeed, head to our Testimonial.
If you are interested in learning more about the pros and cons of the various outsourcing locations around the world and how Vietnam compares to them, contact our friendly team today!
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