Whether according to administrative boundaries before or after 1900, Nam Sach is still the leading district in the country in terms of the number of people passing doctoral degrees in Confucian studies.

Mac Dinh Chi Temple in Long Dong village, Nam Tan commune, Nam Sach district (file photo)

In the ancient East, during the period of Vietnam’s academic examination (1075-1919), Nam Sach district in Hai Duong province stood out as a prominent hub of academic excellence. This district, steeped in a rich tradition of scholarship, produced an impressive number of Confucian doctors who made significant contributions to various fields such as politics, military, diplomacy, culture, and education.

Nam Sach’s legacy as a center of learning is exemplified by its remarkable achievement of having 107 feudal Confucian doctors, a feat that not only secured its position as the leader in Hai Duong province but also established its prominence at a national level.

This remarkable accomplishment reflects the unwavering spirit of studiousness, the determination to pursue knowledge, and the deep reverence for literacy that permeates the community, solidifying Nam Sach’s reputation as a land of exceptional individuals.

The village of Mo Trach, located in Tan Hong, Binh Giang, is renowned as the “village of doctors” and “the furnace of doctors in the East,” boasting 39 students who achieved the esteemed title of Confucian doctor.

Additionally, Nam Sach district emerged as the frontrunner in Hai Duong province, with 106 Confucian doctors (according to administrative units before 1900) and 123 (according to administrative boundaries before 2008).

Even under the current administrative units, Nam Sach continues to uphold its legacy with 107 individuals, including 6 poinsettias, 4 longan boards, 4 Tham Hoa, 23 Hoang Giap, 66 doctorates, and 4 degrees equivalent to doctorates.

Furthermore, Nam Sach’s academic prowess extends beyond producing Confucian doctors. The district also holds the distinction of leading the country in the number of individuals passing university entrance exams when calculated by district-level administrative units. This remarkable achievement underscores Nam Sach’s enduring commitment to education and intellectual pursuits.

Historically, during the Ly, Tran, Early Le, Mac, and Le Trung Hung dynasties, the Temple of Literature served as the epicenter for learning and examination activities across the country.

The strategic location of the Thang Long citadel provided Northern students with an advantageous environment for scholarly endeavors, resulting in a concentration of successful candidates from provinces in the Red River Delta such as Hai Duong, Bac Ninh, Hanoi, Hung Yen, and Nam Dinh.

Scholarly works and historical records from provincial-level research books shed light on the illustrious figures who emerged from Nam Sach district. These luminaries not only excelled in their academic pursuits but also made indelible contributions to various spheres of society.

Among them, Mac Hien Tich from the Ly Dynasty, Mac Dinh Chi from the Tran Dynasty, and Ngo Hoan from the Le Dynasty stand out as exemplary figures who leveraged their scholarly achievements to serve their country in roles ranging from ambassadors to esteemed poets.

The Tao Dan Association of Hai Duong and Nam Sach further exemplifies the district’s rich literary heritage. Tran Sung Dinh, Ngo Hoan, Vu Duong, and Nguyen Hoan, prominent members of this association, left behind a legacy of poetic works that are immortalized in literary collections. Their contributions not only enriched the cultural tapestry of their era but also continue to inspire generations with their timeless verses.

The renaissance period of the Le Dynasty witnessed the remarkable contributions of Dr. Tran Tho, his son Tran Canh, and grandson Tran Tien. These erudite scholars held esteemed positions in the imperial court while also leaving behind a legacy of literary works that showcased their intellectual prowess and deep-rooted commitment to their homeland.

Nam Sach’s enduring legacy as a cradle of academic excellence is further underscored by the profound impact its scholars had on shaping the cultural and intellectual landscape of Vietnam. Their influence extended beyond academic realms, permeating various facets of society and leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s historical narrative.

In conclusion, Nam Sach’s rich academic tradition stands as a testament to the district’s unwavering dedication to knowledge acquisition and scholarly pursuits.

The indomitable spirit of its people, coupled with a deep reverence for learning and literacy, has propelled Nam Sach to the forefront of intellectual achievement, earning it a well-deserved reputation as a land of exceptional individuals.

As we reflect on Nam Sach’s remarkable legacy, we are reminded of the enduring power of education and the profound impact it has on shaping societies and enriching human civilization.