US supports Vietnam in developing semiconductor workforce

By investing in human resource development and public policy, Vietnam aims to strengthen the Southeast Asian nation’s position as a key player in the global semiconductor supply chain.

Vietnam is implementing a series of workshops on semiconductor workforce development and public policy workshops, according to US Embassy in Vietnam on September 11.

The sessions will take place in Hanoi between September 11 and 13, just as the US and Vietnam celebrate one year since the signing of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and are part of the International Technology Security & Innovation Fund (ITSI Fund), a key initiative of the US's CHIPS and Science Act designed to enhance semiconductor capabilities and supply chain resilience worldwide.

Organised by Arizona State University (ASU), the kick-off sessions will bring together key stakeholders, including leaders from the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI), Ministry of Information and Communications, Ministry of Education and Training, Ministry of Science and Technology, Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, the National Innovation Centre (NIC), local government officials, assembly-testing-packaging (ATP) industry leaders, and academic representatives from top engineering and technology universities and vocational colleges. The aim is to identify Vietnam's strengths and challenges in the semiconductor sector and formulate action plans to enhance its capabilities.

Vietnam is one of eight countries selected for this initiative, along with Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama, Indonesia, the Philippines, Kenya, and India, which are all supported by the US Department of State's Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs. The Department of State awarded $13.8 million to ASU to drive talent development and formulate public policy recommendations across these nations.

"This initiative is a significant step in strengthening Vietnam's semiconductor industry and fostering collaboration between our country and the United States," said Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung. "By investing in workforce development and public policy, we aim to solidify Vietnam’s position as a vital player in the global semiconductor supply chain."

The workshops are designed to develop a skilled workforce and create a supportive policy environment to attract investment and innovation in the semiconductor sector. Through this initiative, ASU is also partnering with educational institutions so professors and students from those institutions can receive mentoring and access to coursework to support their development.

These efforts are in alignment with the ITSI Fund's goals to diversify and expand global semiconductor ATP capabilities, ensuring a robust and resilient supply chain.

As part of this initiative, ASU has launched the portal https://itsi-skillsaccelerator.org, offering free courses to students interested in the semiconductor industry. The platform also provides opportunities for teachers to receive certifications in semiconductor technology, acting as a hub for individuals and institutions eager to engage with this critical field.

US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper highlighted the scheme’s importance in connecting American and Vietnamese institutions. He State: "The US is proud to invest in Vietnam’s future through workforce development programmes that create lasting partnership. Together, we are building institutional ties that will shape the semiconductor industry for years to come."

Minister Dung expressed his support by stating: "These workshops are a confirmation of Vietnam’s determination to seize opportunities and become an important link in the semiconductor industry's global value chain. By promoting cooperation and investing in human resources, we are creating a promising future for Vietnam’s semiconductor industry."

Emphasising the broader significance of these initiatives, ITSI senior coordinator Virginia Kent said: "This partnership extends beyond technological advancements. It represents a shared commitment to fostering sustainable development and prosperity through innovation. Together, we can ensure that the benefits of technological progress are widely distributed, strengthening our economies and our shared democratic values."

Jeffrey Goss, principal investigator of the ITSI initiative at ASU, remarked that: "This collaboration opens up tremendous opportunities for Vietnamese students and professionals to gain cutting-edge skills in semiconductor technology. ASU is honoured to support Vietnam's journey towards becoming a key player in this transformative industry."