Vietnam's Deputy PM calls for overhaul of science and technology research

Vietnam's Deputy Prime Minister has called for comprehensive reforms across the science and technology research and development landscape, signaling growing concerns about the country's innovation capacity and private sector engagement in research.

During the 2021-2025 period, Vietnamese businesses led only 181 of 1,451 national-level science and technology research tasks, representing 12.5 percent of total projects despite accounting for 25.7 percent of overall funding. The disparity highlights challenges in translating investment into leadership roles within Vietnam's research ecosystem.

As part of efforts to strengthen the nation's research capabilities, top officials have tasked Hanoi University of Science and Technology with becoming a leading research institution. The university is expected to play a central role in advancing Vietnam's technological development and fostering stronger connections between academia and industry.

Parallel initiatives underscore the government's commitment to elevating research standards. Vietnamese scientists working abroad, including those in Japan, are being encouraged to contribute to the homeland's technological advancement through research collaboration, training programs, and technology transfer initiatives.

The deputy premier's emphasis on fundamental reform suggests the government recognizes gaps in Vietnam's current research structure and sees urgent need for systemic improvements to boost innovation and competitiveness in the regional economy.