11-7-2024 (HANOI) A disturbing incident of child mistreatment has come to light in Buon Ma Thuot City, sending shockwaves through the local community. A video surfaced on social media on the evening of 9th July, revealing a woman force-feeding and physically abusing a young child at an unlicensed daycare facility.
The harrowing footage, lasting over a minute, depicts a visibly agitated woman shouting at and forcibly feeding a group of children. In a particularly distressing scene, a young boy who was eating slowly became the target of her aggression. The woman was seen striking the child’s face, causing him to cry while continuing to eat.
Pham Van Thai, Chairman of the People’s Committee of Tan Loi Ward, confirmed that the incident occurred at an unauthorised childcare centre within the ward. The facility is run by 60-year-old Nguyen Thi Nghia, who admitted to caring for five children. Nghia’s daughter, who lacks any formal qualifications or training in childcare, was responsible for looking after the children.
When questioned about the incident, the caregiver claimed that she had “pressured and touched the child’s cheek” because the children were refusing to eat.
“We have issued a fine against this illegal daycare centre and ordered its immediate closure,” Thai stated. He revealed that the facility had previously been penalised for operating without proper authorisation. Despite official warnings advising parents against using the centre’s services, some continued to leave their children in its care.
This incident has reignited concerns about the regulation of childcare facilities in the region. Article 6 of Decree 04/2021 stipulates that unlicensed preschool education facilities can face fines ranging from 10 to 20 million dong (approximately S$530 to S$1060).
Child welfare advocates are calling for stricter enforcement of regulations and more frequent inspections of childcare facilities. Dr Tran Minh Hung, a child psychologist, expressed his concern: “This incident underscores the urgent need for better oversight of childcare centres. The emotional and physical well-being of children must be our utmost priority.”
Local authorities have pledged to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and to review childcare regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future. They are also considering implementing awareness programmes to educate parents about the importance of choosing licensed and properly regulated childcare facilities.
