The event showcased the achievements resulting from the collaboration between Vietnam and Australia in the field of innovation. Since 2018, the Australian Government has been assisting Vietnam in developing an innovation ecosystem through its flagship program, Aus4Innovation. Recently, Australia announced the extension of the Aus4Innovation program until 2028, committing a total budget of 33.5 million AUD (22.17 million USD) over ten years.
    |
 |
|
Mr. Huynh Thanh Dat, Minister of Science and Technology, delivers a speech at the event. |
Speaking at the event, Australian Ambassador to Vietnam Andrew Goledzinowski, emphasized the substantial and trustworthy nature of the innovation cooperation between the two countries. He highlighted that the collaboration occurs at various levels, including individuals, institutions, and governments. He also mentioned the plans to deepen cooperation in trade and investment, defense and security, and knowledge and innovation, as the two countries are working towards upgrading their relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Minister of Science and Technology Huynh Thanh Dat acknowledged the substantial and significant results delivered through the partnership with Australia, particularly through the Aus4Innovation program. He emphasized the positive impact on the life of the Vietnamese people. The introduction of Vietnam's strategy for the development of science, technology, and innovation (STI) until 2030 affirms the crucial role of STI in addressing emerging economic, social, and institutional challenges. Minister Dat expressed MoST's commitment to meeting the goals outlined in the strategy, with the support of Australia as a trusted partner, aiming to achieve even more in the coming years.
Jonathan Law, CSIRO's Executive Director of Growth, stated that the next phase of the Aus4Innovation program will be built upon the solid foundation already established. Over the next five years, the program will prioritize areas in line with Vietnam's needs, such as resilient agriculture and food, and will introduce digital interventions, including responsible artificial intelligence.
After five years of operation across 37 provinces in Vietnam, the Aus4Innovation program has laid the groundwork for 82 partnerships between Australian and Vietnamese universities, research agencies, high-tech businesses, and policymakers. It has also established a pool of 875 trainers and experts through capacity building activities. Furthermore, the program has contributed to national policies on science, technology, and innovation, and developed practical tools for innovation policy development, fostering a more conducive environment for innovation.
Translated by Song Anh