In the context of digital transformation reshaping the global educational ecosystem, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a strategic factor in reforming and modernizing education in Vietnam. This article analyzes the trends in applying AI in education from a public policy perspective while assessing the readiness of Vietnam's educational system to effectively and comprehensively integrate this technology. Based on a review of implementation practices at several educational institutions, the study identifies foundational conditions such as technological infrastructure, teachers' digital competence, and learners’ access and acceptance levels. AI is considered to have great potential in personalizing the learning process, enhancing classroom management, supporting student competency assessment, and promoting the development of essential 21st-century skills. However, implementation still faces many challenges, including regional disparities in access to technology, a lack of high-quality human resources, and ethical risks related to student data management. Accordingly, the paper proposes strategic directions such as establishing a unified digital education policy, investing in the development of a digitally competent teaching workforce, and promoting public-private partnerships in educational technology research and development to ensure that AI application in education is systematic, equitable, and sustainable.