(i) Civilising Mission: The French claimed that they were bringing modern civilisation to the Vietnamese. They took for granted that Europe had developed the most advanced civilisation. So, it became the duty of the Europeans to introduce modern ideas to the colony even if it meant destroying local cultures, religions and traditions.
(ii) To Counter the Chinese Influence: Chinese culture dominated Vietnam. The cities in Vietnam were powerfully influenced by Chinese culture. To consolidate their power, the French had to counter this Chinese influence. So, they systematically dismantled the traditional educational system and established French schools for the Vietnamese.
(iii) To Create An Asiatic France: The French wanted to educate the people of Vietnam to create an Asiatic France which would solidly tied to European France. They thought that the educated people in Vietnam would respect French sentiments and ideals, see the superiority of French culture, and work for the French.