Hanoi (VNA) - A programme themed “Science, Technology, Innovation, and Digital Transformation: Breakthroughs to Propel the Nation into a Prosperous Era” was held in Hanoi on May 16, in response to the implementation of the Politburo’s Resolution 57.
The resolution identifies the development of science and technology, innovation and digital transformation as the key factor, prerequisite and best opportunity for Vietnam to make a breakthrough, realizing the aspiration of becoming a wealthy and powerful nation in the new era.
Addressing the programme, Minister of Science and Technology Nguyen Manh Hung affirmed that science should not only be in laboratories and books, but must be brought into life to address major national problems, and bring prosperity and happiness to the people.
The Ministry of Science and Technology features five key pillars, namely science and technology; intellectual property; innovation; standards, metrology and quality; and digital transformation
According to the Minister, scientists who have made significant contributions to the development of the country and humanity should be honored permanently.
The Ministry will propose to the Government the construction of a park featuring monuments dedicated to scientists whose research achievements and contributions have had a profound impact on the nation and the world.
The ministry is also committed to refining the legal system, mechanisms, and policies to promote research, innovation, and technology application;
unlocking funding sources, diversifying forms of sponsorship, and simplifying procedures for research support; redefining the role of enterprises - from passive beneficiaries to active leaders in innovation and technology commercialisation.
The ministry will prioritise the development of key technologies such as artificial intelligence, microchips, biotechnology, new energy, and digital technologies as the foundation for breakthroughs.
It will also promote stronger linkages among research institutes, universities, businesses, and the government to build a comprehensive innovation ecosystem, Hung noted.
With a pioneering spirit, the ministry is committed to continuing its support for the scientific community, businesses, and the public, working to build a comprehensive innovation ecosystem - where every creative idea has the chance to become reality, and every scientific achievement contributes to improving quality of life, protecting the environment, and enhancing national competitiveness, he added.
Outstanding science and technology projects and products of 2024 were honoured at the event. They all have high practical applicability, contributing to addressing urgent national issues while also improving the quality of life for the people.
The Ministry of Science and Technology also officially announced the new Action Programme and Mission of the National Foundation for Science and Technology Development (NAFOSTED) - a science funding institution that has been restructured to enhance management efficiency, reduce administrative procedures, and create the most favorable conditions possible for organizations and individuals to carry out science and technology tasks.
Notably, ten outstanding groups from research institutes, universities, businesses, and inventors committed to implementing key scientific research and technology application projects.
These initiatives focus on priority areas such as: developing cancer drugs based on genetic mechanisms; creating AI chips for edge computing in smart devices (Edge-AI); designing machinery for circular agriculture; mastering advanced medical technologies such as brain embolisation and cardiac support; and producing Vietnamese-language artificial intelligence software under the “Make in Vietnam” initiative.
This year’s programme also honoured outstanding initiatives from the “2025 Scientific Initiative” competition, with total prizes worth nearly 1 billion VND (38,350 USD)./.
