The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) has recently released a draft Law on Science, Technology, and Innovation, outlining significant changes aimed at strengthening science and technology human resources, incentivizing science and technology workers, commercializing research outcomes, and improving the management of state budget-funded science and technology programs.
Expansion of Science and Technology Human Resources
One of the most notable proposals in the draft law is the expansion of the definition of science and technology human resources to encompass all science and technology workers, regardless of whether they work in the public or private sector. Specifically, the draft law includes:
- Master’s students, doctoral students, and post-doctoral researchers;
- Individuals holding managerial positions in the field of science and technology within state agencies;
- Professionals engaged in scientific research, technology development, and technology application promotion activities, including salaried employees of enterprises and independent practitioners.
This broadened scope seeks to foster an inclusive and dynamic workforce capable of driving scientific advancements and technological innovation.
Enhanced Opportunities for Public Science and Technology Workers
To promote the commercialization of research outcomes, the draft law proposes allowing science and technology workers in public agencies to establish and manage enterprises dedicated to this purpose. Moreover, these professionals may be seconded to R&D institutions, higher education institutions, enterprises, and other organizations for fixed periods to facilitate knowledge exchange, skill development, and alignment with technological demands. During their secondment, they would retain their salary and other entitlements. This initiative aims to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry, bridging the gap between research and practical application.
Strengthening Research Commercialization and Investment
The MOST also proposes transferring ownership of state budget-funded science and technology research outcomes to the respective in-charge entities. This measure is intended to encourage further investment and commercialization efforts, ensuring that research results can transition from laboratories to practical applications with greater efficiency.
Additionally, apart from state-ordered science and technology programs, organizations and individuals would be allowed to propose and apply for state budget funding for their research initiatives. The draft law also promotes the shared use of laboratories and cooperative mechanisms among research institutions to optimize resource utilization and foster collaboration.
National Financial Planning for Science and Technology Development
A further important addition to the draft law is the establishment of an overall financial plan for national science and technology development and innovation. This financial framework would serve as a guiding basis for ministries, sectors, and localities to formulate their respective annual plans, ensuring a more coordinated and strategic approach to funding scientific and technological advancements.
The draft Law on Science, Technology, and Innovation is scheduled to be submitted to the National Assembly for passage this October. If enacted, the proposed changes are expected to create a more robust and interconnected science and technology ecosystem in Vietnam, accelerating the country’s progress in innovation and research commercialization.
The implementation of these regulations will play a crucial role in shaping Vietnam’s scientific and technological landscape. Stakeholders, including research institutions, enterprises, and policymakers, should closely monitor developments and prepare for the impacts of the new legal framework.
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