PM urges large-scale investment in science and technology

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh called on businesses to promote comprehensive investment in science and technology, especially in new fields that promote green, sustainable and eco-friendly development, when he addressed an event to celebrate Vietnam Science and Technology Day [May 18].

Themed "Science, Technology and Innovation - Source of Sustainable Development", the event was held by the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) to mark the 10th anniversary of Vietnam Science and Technology Day, which has been celebrated annually for the past ten years.

Prime Minister Chinh reiterated that the Vietnamese Government has considered the application of science and technology as the main policy and the most important driving force for national development and defense. "Vietnam is a progressive country with great potential and growing value in innovation, ranking among the top 50 nations in the Global Innovation Index," he added.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh listens to the introduction of a number of scientific and technological products applied in agriculture and industry at the event celebrating Vietnam's Science & Technology Day on May 17. Photo: VGP

"However, in an ever-changing and unpredictable world, we must nurture and support the spirit of scientific and technological innovation. It is necessary to have a team of competent scientists working in research institutes, universities and production facilities, highly skilled engineers and technologists working in enterprises, and qualified managers to promote science, technology and innovation," the Prime Minister said.

He stressed the need to effectively utilize the resources of Vietnamese scientists at home and abroad, and to have scientists and managers with innovative thinking and strategic vision to tap the country's resources and potentials for further development.

The PM called for further action by ministries and agencies in these efforts, while continuing to fine-tune policies and mechanisms to achieve breakthroughs in technology application and research capacity improvement.

Chinh also called for more enthusiasm and commitment from scientists to further promote the spirit of science, technology and innovation. He also stressed the importance of developing a passion for innovation among young people.

"We need good teachers, scientists, engineers and good management to plan and develop science and technology in the country, as the socialist revolution is linked to the development of science and technology as well as the development of people's culture," the Prime Minister said.

Minister of Science and Technology Huynh Thanh Dat speaks at the event. Photo: VGP

For his part, Minister of Science and Technology Huynh Thanh Dat said that over the past ten years, since the 2013 Law on Science and Technology was passed, the anniversary has truly become a great celebration of scientists and innovators nationwide.

He stressed that these activities are aimed at igniting the passion for innovation in society and instilling a love for science in young people, thus contributing to the creation of a society that respects science and innovation.

Nguyen Hoang Giang, Deputy Minister of Science and Technology, praised the theme of the event and hoped that it can be a place where scientists and regulators can come together and find great solutions.

"As part of the anniversary, the 2023 Science Innovation Competition was held. This is the second year that the competition has been held to instill in young people a love for science and technology and to find practical applications for them in their daily lives," Giang said.

The competition is to recognize exceptional innovations, encouraging young scientists across the country to do research then put innovations into use.