Hanoi (VNA) – The digital transformation of Vietnam is poised to reshape many aspects of the nation’s development, with a vision centred on inclusivity, innovation, and sustainability, focusing on three key pillars of digital economy, digital government, and digital society.
Samsung Vietnam, in collaboration with the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour, the Ministry of Planning and Investment, and the National Innovation Centre (NIC), launched the 2024 Multi-Stakeholder Forum (MSF) under the theme "Developing People and Technology Towards an Inclusive Digital Vietnam" on November 8. The event aimed to promote a vision of digital inclusivity, where technology serves all members of society, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age.
In his opening remarks, Choi Joo Ho, CEO of Samsung Vietnam, praised the dynamic and innovative spirit of Vietnam, noting the country’s rapid adoption of digital opportunities. He highlighted the importance of a national strategy focused on digital transformation, emphasising that Vietnam’s progress hinges not only on technological advancements but also on ensuring that marginalised communities can access and benefit from these developments. According to Choi, digital inclusivity is key to building a prosperous, equitable, and sustainable society.
He also pointed out that Samsung has been working closely with the Vietnamese government, NGOs, and other stakeholders to address the challenges of building an inclusive digital society.
At the forum, Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment, Tran Quoc Phuong, outlined the ministry’s ongoing efforts to design policies and programmes aimed at promoting digital transformation and ensuring sustainable development and equality.
The ministry has partnered with NIC to roll out specific programmes targeting vulnerable groups, such as providing digital skills training for workers through initiatives like the "New Opportunities" programme for blue-collar workers, as well as basic artificial intelligence (AI) education for the general public.
Digital capacity building is a long-term process that requires collaboration across society, said Phuong, adding that by creating a conducive learning environment and providing necessary tools, we can help marginalised individuals, including people with disabilities and those in remote areas, integrate into the digital society and access the benefits of technology.
One of the highlights of MSF 2024 was the launch of the InclusiveTech Initiative, an initiative led by the NIC, with support from Samsung Vietnam and the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour. This initiative focuses on using technology to serve all of society, particularly vulnerable groups, by creating innovative solutions that promote equality and inclusivity.
The initiative is underpinned by an online platform designed to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders passionate about inclusive technology. This platform will be a space for individuals and organisations to collaborate and drive innovation for social good.
A key feature of the initiative is the "InclusiveTech for Social Innovation" Award, which will be held annually to recognise outstanding organisations and individuals who have used technology to bridge the digital divide and increase access for vulnerable communities. The first awards ceremony took place at MSF 2024, with 15 innovative projects being recognised for their efforts to increase technology accessibility and empower disadvantaged groups. At the forum, experts from various sectors, including government, NGOs, academia, and business, shared insights into how technology can drive social inclusion and sustainability. In addition to pioneering digital inclusion projects, Samsung Vietnam showcased its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives aimed at empowering the next generation to harness technology for sustainable development.
The MSF 2024 event underscored the importance of collaboration and innovation to bridge the digital divide and ensure that everyone can benefit from the digital future. By addressing the needs of marginalized communities, promoting digital literacy, and fostering technological innovation, Vietnam is laying the groundwork for a truly inclusive digital society.
The Multi-Stakeholder Forum (MSF) is an ongoing initiative launched by Samsung Vietnam in 2018, providing a platform for dialogue on socio-economic development in Vietnam. This year’s forum focused on advancing multi-stakeholder cooperation and creative solutions that enhance accessibility, reduce digital inequality, and unlock the potential of all individuals, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The ultimate goal of MSF 2024 is to create a future where technology benefits all, contributing to the development of a digital Vietnam that is inclusive, equitable, and sustainable for everyone./.
