Shifting paradigm in science, technology and innovation policy of Vietnam in the international integration process

Abstract

Vietnam has experienced crucial transformations in every turning point of the world history. In this process, along with changes in the economic model, social institutions, are changes in the Government’s management method in specific areas, especially in the shift from a centrally-planned to a socialist market-oriented economy. Vietnam's science, technology and innovation system has also gone through innumerable reforms to evolve, adapt and positively energize self-innovation. Science, technology and innovation indicators are embedded into the strategic goals of national policies and entered into every area, every sector (public and private) and individuals/organizations in Vietnam. In the context of international economic integration and the fourth industrial revolution, science, technology and innovation have become the targets and means for socio-economic development more than ever before. This paper aims to explore the philosophical moves in Science, technology and innovation management in Vietnam. It will clarify successes and challenges in the context of international integration. The first part of the paper discussed the concepts and approaches in policy and innovation research, since these aspects have not been fully established and agreed in previous studies in Vietnam. Secondly, the author reviewed and assessed the changes in Vietnam's science, technology and innovation policy framework to observe the four philosophy shifts of the relationship between the State and the science, technology and innovation system through the periods. Thirdly, changes in policies resulted in changes in resources, organizational structure, operational content and correlation as well as the position of elements in the science and technology and innovation system. The last part addresses macro and micro policy solutions for the development of the science, technology and innovation system for Vietnam in a new, potential, but risky context. Accordingly, science, technology and innovation policies need to be more open and autonomous to ensure the self-fulfillment, adaption and innovation of the science, technology and innovation system.