Building a generation of digital citizens

Digital transformation is accelerating across sectors, emerging as a key driver of rapid and sustainable development. In this context, efforts to build a digital government have been actively promoted in Dong Nai to enhance the effectiveness of state management while modernizing public services toward greater transparency and openness. Accordingly, developing digital citizens capable of adapting to these changes has emerged as a critical task. To meet this demand, the younger generation, particularly Youth Union members, has been identified as a pioneering and core force in accessing, mastering, and spreading digital values.

In practice, the role of youth in Dong Nai’s digital transformation process has become increasingly evident. Beyond proactively improving their technological knowledge and skills, many Youth Union members, pupils, and students have taken part in community digital technology teams. Through these initiatives, they directly assist residents in accessing online public services, guide them in using digital platforms, and raise awareness of information security as well as common online fraud schemes. Such activities not only help narrow the digital divide but also bring the spirit of digital transformation closer to local communities.

Notably, the movement for scientific and technological research among students in Dong Nai has gained strong momentum. Several participants have achieved high results in both domestic and international competitions, ranging from robotics contests such as Robocon to programming and artificial intelligence challenges. Several higher education institutions in the province, including Lac Hong University in Tran Bien ward and Dong Nai Technology University in Trang Dai ward, have also taken the initiative in developing technology products with practical applications. These products are gradually being transferred to enterprises, thereby strengthening the linkage between training and real-world production and business activities.

Nevertheless, building a true generation of digital citizens requires comprehensive, systematic, and long-term solutions. First and foremost, digital skills education should be further integrated into school curricula from an early stage in a practical and modern manner, closely aligned with real-life needs. Rather than focusing solely on technical skills, greater emphasis should be placed on fostering digital thinking, creativity, and adaptability in a rapidly evolving digital environment.

In parallel, more technology-oriented platforms should be created, such as innovation competitions, creative forums, and technology clubs within schools, enabling students to gain hands-on experience and develop their capabilities. Expanding the application of technology in teaching and learning, alongside promoting smart education models, will also play a crucial role in building a comprehensive digital learning environment.

In addition, early career orientation in technology-related fields should be strengthened, helping students better understand future job trends and develop appropriate learning pathways in line with labor market demands in the digital era.

More importantly, becoming digital citizens requires each young individual to proactively transform their mindset, continuously learn, and equip themselves with new knowledge and skills. A strong sense of self-learning, adaptability, and responsibility in cyberspace will be decisive factors shaping the quality of the future digital workforce.

Enhancing awareness, capacity, and digital skills among Youth Union members will not only contribute to building a strong base of digital citizens but also lay a solid foundation for Dong Nai to accelerate its digital transformation. In particular, as the province moves toward the goal of becoming a centrally governed city, a dynamic and tech-savvy young workforce will serve as a key driver, forming a decisive foundation for long-term development.

By Thu Ngoc – Translated by M.Nguyet, Minho