School-based sexual abuse prevention services for ethnic minority boarding students in Vietnam: A multi-stakeholder assessment of implementation and perceived effectiveness

This study examines school-based sexual abuse prevention services for vulnerable ethnic minority boarding students in Vietnam’s northern midland and mountainous provinces. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 1,095 participants, including school administrators, teachers, students, and parents. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive statistics and group comparisons. Findings indicate that, although program implementation is formally supported at the school level, students and parents report limited awareness, exposure, and engagement with prevention activities. Perceived effectiveness differs across stakeholder groups, suggesting gaps in communication, understanding, and participation within the school–family–community system. Key barriers include cultural taboos surrounding sexual abuse, insufficient parental involvement, and weak linkages between schools, local authorities, and community-based child protection services. The results underscore the need for a comprehensive, whole-school, and multi-stakeholder approach to sexual abuse prevention in ethnic minority boarding schools. Strengthening communication strategies, embedding culturally responsive content, and institutionalizing collaboration between schools, families, and local agencies are essential to improving the welfare and safety of ethnic minority children in underserved regions.