Vietnam Proposes Special Incentives to Attract Overseas Scientists

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest economic hub, is proposing the introduction of special incentives and support systems to attract scientists and researchers working abroad. This proposal was put forward by Minister Son during the deliberation of the draft Law on Urban Development. While the draft law covers planning, infrastructure, science and technology, education, and healthcare, it lacks specific mechanisms to attract talent from overseas to domestic universities and vocational education institutions, despite provisions for promoting the dispatch of education administrators and teachers for overseas training. Minister Son stated, "Sending teachers and lecturers out for training is good, but attraction policies are also very important." He emphasized that many Vietnamese intellectuals, lecturers, and scientists based overseas wish to return or collaborate with domestic universities. The minister suggested that Ho Chi Minh City could leverage these individuals as valuable resources by offering special support and remuneration similar to the mechanisms for attracting science and technology personnel. This approach aligns with the Politburo's resolution on overseas Vietnamese affairs. Specifically, the proposal calls for applying special mechanisms similar to those governing high-tech parks to university urban zones. These zones are envisioned not only as teaching sites but also as hubs for research and innovation activities, including corporate research and development centers. The right framework would help universities mobilize resources, deepen cooperation with businesses, and accelerate research and knowledge transfer. Ho Chi Minh City accounts for approximately one-quarter of Vietnam's GDP and about one-third of state budget revenue, with an annual economic output exceeding $100 billion. The challenge of talent acquisition in this city is a crucial focus of Vietnam's overall economic growth strategy. The National Assembly is scheduled to debate the draft law on August 11 and vote on it on August 24. Source: VnExpress International