Tourism’s role in advancing sustainable development in Vietnam

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To achieve sustainable development and boost economic growth, high-quality human resources, alongside advancements in science and technology, are essential. This perspective is shared by key experts and stakeholders in Vietnam’s development landscape.

The Importance of High-Quality Human Resources

Prof. Dr. Nguyen Dinh Duc, Chairman of the University Council of the University of Engineering and Technology at Vietnam National University-Hanoi, emphasizes that in many industries, especially manufacturing, which attracts the highest concentration of foreign direct investment (FDI) projects, there is a limited rate of employed and well-trained workers. This gap underscores the critical need for high-quality human resources to support and sustain economic development.

Progress and Challenges in Human Resource Development

Dr. Tran Van Khai, a member of the Committee for Science, Technology, and Environment of the National Assembly, notes that Vietnam has made significant strides in developing high-quality human resources. The country has established policies to attract and retain talent, including competitive salaries, bonuses, and welfare packages. There is a growing number of entrepreneurs and skilled workers, which is crucial for national development.

However, Khai points out that vocational training structures do not yet fully align with the labor market’s demands, particularly in emerging economic sectors. Additionally, there is a notable shortage of laborers in key economic sectors and those serving the digital economy. To address these issues, he stresses the urgency of implementing breakthrough policies to overcome existing shortcomings and enhance labor productivity.

Focus on the Semiconductor Industry

For the semiconductor industry, a recent report from the Ministry of Planning and Investment highlights the need for Vietnam to train between 50,000 to 100,000 high-quality workers from 2025 to 2030. Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha underlines the importance of prioritizing the training and attraction of high-quality teachers and lecturers with deep expertise to meet this demand.

Enhancing National Competitiveness Through Education and Research

Minister of Science and Technology Huynh Thanh Dat emphasizes the crucial role of human resources and scientific research in strengthening national competitiveness and innovation capacity. He calls for improved policies to create a favorable environment for scientists at universities, enabling them to maximize their research potential.

Universities are encouraged to invest substantially in improving the quality of undergraduate and postgraduate education and to develop high-quality scientific and technological human resources. The minister also suggests that the National Foundation for Science and Technology should sponsor programs that promote outstanding research groups and develop high-level scientific and technological research talent, especially among young individuals.

Tourism’s Contribution

From a tourism perspective, the development of high-quality human resources is also essential. As tourism continues to grow, attracting skilled professionals to manage and innovate within the industry will enhance Vietnam’s appeal as a top travel destination. Well-trained human resources in tourism can provide exceptional services, improve visitor experiences, and contribute significantly to the sector’s sustainable development.

Vietnam’s commitment to developing high-quality human resources and advancing scientific research is pivotal for sustainable development. By addressing gaps in vocational training, prioritizing high-quality education, and fostering a favorable environment for innovation, Vietnam can enhance its competitiveness and support its economic goals. For the tourism sector, this translates into better services, improved infrastructure, and a more attractive destination for travelers worldwide.