Image source: Báo Điện Tử Đại Biểu Nhân Dân
On 21 April 2025, the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) hosted a ceremony in Hanoi to commemorate the United Nations-recognised World Creativity and Innovation Day. The event underscored Vietnam’s growing commitment to embedding innovation across all sectors of society as a driver of sustainable development. Representing EuroCham Vietnam at the event was Board Member Rita Mokbel.
The event welcomed key government leaders and international partners, including:
- H.E. Mr. Nguyen Manh Hung, Minister of Science and Technology
- Mr. Hoang Minh, Vice Minister of Science and Technology
- Mrs. Nguyen Thi Minh Huong, Vice President of the Vietnam Women’s Union
- Mrs. Pauline Tamesis, UN Resident Coordinator in Vietnam
- Representatives of ministries, research institutes, innovation centres, and international organisations
Innovation is for everyone
In his keynote speech, Minister of Science and Technology Nguyen Manh Hung emphasised that creativity and innovation must go beyond science and technology—they must become a national movement involving every profession and every individual. From farmers designing their own tools to students developing classroom innovations, the Minister highlighted the importance of a culture where “daring to think, daring to do, and daring to innovate” is the norm.
He announced that the Politburo has tasked MOST with drafting a national startup and innovation strategy, aimed at turning innovation into a way of life—one that embraces experimentation, accepts failure, and fosters lifelong learning.
A Shared Vision: Building a Culture of Innovation
Echoing Minister Hung’s remarks, UN Resident Coordinator Pauline Tamesis reaffirmed that innovation must be inclusive, responsible, and deeply rooted in society. Ms. Tamesis pointed out that while 54% of Vietnamese public agencies now use AI, only 20% have ethical guidelines in place. She called for bold yet responsible innovation, aligned with human values, and inclusive of all voices. Importantly, she echoed the Minister’s vision: transforming innovation into a daily mindset and a core cultural value that spans individuals, institutions, and industries.
Enabling Innovation Through Ecosystems and Policy
Minister Hung concluded by calling for a supportive ecosystem in which businesses, individuals, and government work together to remove barriers to innovation. Enterprises must be empowered to create locally tailored solutions, while the government plays an enabling role through clear policies, supportive regulations, and effective incentives.
By cultivating a society that celebrates creativity and embraces change, Vietnam can strengthen its innovation capacity and unlock sustainable growth for future generations.
EuroCham Vietnam was honoured to participate in this event, reaffirming our support for innovation, public-private collaboration, and Vietnam’s transformation toward a knowledge-based, inclusive, and sustainable economy.
