Focusing on science and technology information in economic development

Science and technology (S&T) information is not only pure knowledge but also a valuable resource and a crucial catalyst for innovation and socio-economic development in localities, including Dong Nai province.

Technology products are displayed at a seminar on artificial intelligence (AI) applications organized by the Dong Nai Department of Science and Technology in April 2025. Photo: Hai Quan

In the current context, S&T information is a key factor in building a database system on S&T, thereby moving towards a smart, modern, and efficient economy.

The “lifeline” of digital economic development

At the end of August 2025, One World Magazine and Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, held a seminar on the role of S&T information in socio-economic development.

Central Committee member and Standing Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Vu Hai Quan emphasized: In today's era of digitization and globalization, S&T information is the key that opens the door to knowledge and the bridge that helps scientists and research institutions access the world's most advanced scientific achievements.

At the mid-year review meeting and task implementation session for the last 6 months of 2025 of the Provincial Steering Committee for S&T Development, Innovation, Digital Transformation, and Project 06 held at the end of July 2025, Standing Committee member of the Provincial Party Committee and Vice Chairman of Dong Nai People's Committee Le Truong Son stressed: The Department of Science and Technology should take the lead in researching and proposing specific solutions to effectively and substantively promote digital economy, digital society, and digital citizenship. In particular, provincial departments and sectors need to focus on removing difficulties and barriers in digital data connectivity and sharing, and improving the efficiency of S&T data utilization in the province.

Notably, the entire country is actively working to implement Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW, dated December 22, 2024, issued by the Politburo, on breakthroughs in science and technology development, innovation, and national digital transformation. The resolution clearly outlines Vietnam's science and technology development pathway, in which science and technology information is identified as one of the core components.

Central Committee member and Deputy Head of the Central Commission for Communication and Public Affairs Huynh Thanh Dat emphasized that science and technology information is considered the "lifeline" of digital economic development, industrialization, modernization, and international integration. Topics such as assessing the current state of access to and sharing of science and technology information; analyzing trends and the impact of emerging technologies; and identifying appropriate mechanisms and policies for the management, utilization, and effective application of such information are both urgent and of long-term significance. These issues provide essential scientific and practical grounds for the Party and the State in leadership, direction, and policymaking in the new period.

Prof. Dr. Vo Xuan Vinh, Director of the Institute for Business Research, University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City, noted: S&T information plays a role in generating growth momentum, enhancing competitiveness, addressing social challenges, promoting digital transformation, and fostering international integration.

Transforming data into useful information and transferring science and technology research results for practical application by businesses and the public requires greater attention. Therefore, enhancing the role and effectiveness of science and technology information and data calls for solutions such as increased investment in database system development, proactive application of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve access to and utilization of information, and the development and completion of a national science and technology database.

"Particularly, connecting activities between the government, enterprises, and research institutes/universities in S&T, as well as sharing resources and increasing reciprocity in S&T information connection and sharing, should be strengthened and emphasized in the implementation of Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW," Prof. Dr. Vo Xuan Vinh shared.

Enhancing S&T information and data connectivity

According to many experts, in the digital era, S&T information and data are likened to the "new oil" driving innovation, the digital economy, and international integration. Given the enormous volume of information today, localities and related units need centralized management to orient, evaluate, and ensure the reliability of S&T information and data. From there, the goal is to build regional data centers, develop digital technology ecosystems for each sector, and improve legal frameworks and regulations on data sharing, intellectual property, and information security. At the same time, AI and new technologies should be applied for analysis, forecasting, and support in research and policymaking, creating platforms to invest in S&T data infrastructure and human resources, promoting open science and international cooperation in S&T, digital transformation, and innovation.

Tran Van Tung, Chairman of the Vietnam Association for Information on Science and Technology, said: The Vietnam Association for Information on Science and Technology always values and actively supports local and unit activities aimed at promoting the development of S&T information. In the context of the strong Fourth Industrial Revolution, effectively leveraging S&T information is not only an opportunity but also an essential requirement for Vietnam in general and localities in particular to integrate and develop. In particular, smart and creative solutions in applying S&T information to real life contribute to effectively implementing Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW of the Politburo on breakthroughs in S&T development, innovation, and national digital transformation.

In recent times, Dong Nai province has focused on developing S&T information and data sources and implementing solutions to promote the digitization of documents and the integration of shared data. Provincial departments, sectors, and localities have strengthened the implementation of document digitization and integration of information systems to serve administrative unit reorganization at the provincial level, linking data to help resolve administrative procedures regardless of administrative boundaries.

According to the Dong Nai Department of Science and Technology, in the coming time, the department will continue standardizing and developing specialized databases connected to the provincial digital data warehouse and open data portal, implementing digital signature campaigns, and popularizing digital skills for citizens. At the same time, the department will strengthen communication to raise awareness and action among citizens, businesses, and localities on S&T development, innovation, and digital transformation in the province. This accomplishment is one of the most important breakthroughs and the main driving force for building a modern, productive force, contributing to the socio-economic development of the locality.

By: Hai Quan

Translated by: Minh Hanh - Minho