Ethnic people preserve indigenous culture in northern Vietnam

Muong Lo district is home to more than 10 ethnic minority groups, with the black Thai making up the largest ethnic group in the locality.

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To preserve the unique culture, the local administration, in co-ordination with communities and schools, have devised plenty of solutions, including teaching young people about their culture at schools and encouraging pupils to perform at festivals.

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Children learn traditional dances of their ethnic groups, including Xoe – a famous dance of the Thais in the north-western region of Vietnam.

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Local kids are confident as they play musical instruments from the Tay ethnic group whilst on stage.

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A traditional dance is performed by ethnic Muong girls.

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Children attentively watch others perform and learn about the art.

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A girl learns how to play a drum.

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Boys study how to play an ethnic flute.

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Girls practice their embroidery skills in order to produce beautiful brocade items.

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Selling brocade items serves as a significant revenue stream for local residents.

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Aside from maintaining their cultural tradition, preserving knowledge about their local values is very important for local children.

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Dang Thi Hong Anh, principal of the Hoang Van Thu primary and secondary school in Nghia Lo town, says most of the students are eager to study in order to discover their culture and learn to preserve it.