Human Development and Technology for an Inclusive Digital Vietnam

Held under the theme “Human Development and Technology Towards an Inclusive Digital Vietnam,” the forum aimed to advance the vision of digital inclusion: “A digitalized Vietnam where technology serves everyone’s lives,” ensuring that no one is left behind.

The event attracted nearly 200 in-person participants and more than 350 online attendees, representing government agencies, ministries, non-governmental organizations, social organizations, associations, businesses, research institutions, universities, trade unions, and experts.

Perspectives from featured speakers

• Patrick Haverman, Deputy Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Vietnam, shared UNDP’s vision for expanding opportunities and access for disadvantaged and vulnerable groups while reducing inequality through technology.
• Associate Professor Dr. Le Hoang Son, Vice Director of the Institute of Information Technology at Vietnam National University, Hanoi, presented on the role of artificial intelligence and data science in promoting digital inclusion.
• Ngo Thuy Anh, a startup leader and Forbes Under 30 honoree, spoke about her mission to use technology to create equal opportunities for all.

A high-level discussion session also brought together experts from policymaking bodies, international organizations, social organizations, academia, and businesses to exchange ideas on how to foster digital inclusion through human development and technology.

Technology as a Tool to Empower Communities

Forum participants discussed practical solutions on how technology can empower communities and ensure that everyone benefits from technological progress.

Launch of the InclusiveTech Initiative

A major highlight of MSF 2024 was the launch of the InclusiveTech Initiative, introduced by NIC with the support of Samsung Vietnam and the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour.

Technology should not only drive the progress of a few, but also create value for the wider community.

The initiative aims to build bridges between technology innovators and vulnerable groups, helping them integrate and thrive, thereby promoting a fairer and more sustainable society through innovative solutions.

Its core platform is a dedicated website designed as a collaborative space for knowledge sharing among stakeholders.

Annual award for inclusive technology

Under the initiative, the annual “InclusiveTech for Social Innovation” Award will honor outstanding organizations and individuals. The award is intended to encourage inclusive technology solutions, promote learning and collaboration, and contribute to the broader social goals of the initiative.

At MSF 2024, the award was presented for the first time, recognizing 15 outstanding initiatives. These initiatives used technology to narrow the digital divide and improve access to technology for vulnerable and disadvantaged groups across multiple sectors.

Challenges in Expanding Digital Skills

Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Tran Quoc Phuong noted that, according to Google’s research on Vietnam’s digital economy, by 2030 the annual economic impact of digital technology in Vietnam could reach VND 1,733 trillion, equivalent to USD 74 billion.

However, he stressed that achieving the goals of the National Strategy for the Development of the Digital Economy and Digital Society by 2030 remains a significant challenge. These goals include universal digital skills training for all segments of society and ensuring that more than 70% of working-age citizens receive basic digital skills training.

He also emphasized that narrowing the digital divide remains a major challenge amid the rapid development of digital technologies. Vulnerable groups face an increasing risk of falling further behind in digital skills in both daily life and work.

Tran Quoc Phuong expressed confidence that the 2024 Multistakeholder Forum would help provide a more comprehensive understanding of digital inclusion and encourage stronger cooperation in building an inclusive digital future.

Honoring Pioneers in Inclusive Technology

Samsung Vietnam President Choi Joo Ho said that Vietnam, with its dynamic and innovative vision, is rapidly seizing the opportunity to become a leading digital nation.

Vietnam’s digital transformation strategy focuses on three key pillars: the digital economy, digital government, and digital society, which promise to transform many aspects of the country.

He stressed that digital transformation can only truly bring progress to society when everyone—especially vulnerable communities— has access to and can use advanced technology.

According to him, digital inclusion is the foundation for Vietnam to become a prosperous, fair, and sustainable nation, and Samsung will continue to support efforts to turn that vision into reality.

I believe that the true value of technology lies in its ability to empower, inspire, connect people, and turn the dreams of everyone into reality, regardless of their background or geographical location.