Strategic Alliance Aims to Bolster Semiconductor Workforce

In a move to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in the semiconductor industry, Vietnam and Japan have solidified their commitment to collaborative development. During the Vietnam and Japan Cooperation Forum, focusing on strategic industries, high technologies, green transformation, and semiconductors, a pivotal memorandum of understanding (MOU) was exchanged.

Key Players Unite to Cultivate Expertise

The MOU signifies a cooperative agreement between Vietnam’s National Innovation Center (NIC), operating under the Ministry of Finance, the University of Hiroshima, and the Association of Professionals of Japan (VJS). This collaboration, witnessed by Prime Ministers FAM Min Chin and Ishiba Siger, underscores the strategic importance of fostering talent in cutting-edge technologies.

Scholarship Programme to Nurture Future Leaders

At the heart of this partnership is a scholarship program designed to cultivate human capital within the semiconductor sector. Vietnamese students will have the prospect to participate in a comprehensive four-year program, splitting their time between the University of Hiroshima in Japan and the University of Idaho in the United States.This international exposure aims to provide students with a well-rounded education and a global perspective on the industry.

This initiative comes at a crucial time, as the global semiconductor market is projected to reach USD 1000 billion by 2030, according to a recent report by McKinsey, highlighting the urgent need for skilled professionals to drive innovation and growth.

FPT Corporation Champions Collaboration

Mr. trung Jia Bin, Chairman of the Board of directors of FPT Corporation, emphasized Vietnam’s potential to provide Japan with a dynamic and ambitious workforce. He urged both governments to continue supporting collaborative efforts between enterprises, recognizing the mutual benefits of such partnerships.

FPT Corporation is actively pursuing collaborations with Japanese enterprises, including Restar, Nisso, and MRIV, focusing on research and development (R&D), technology transfer, and workforce development. These agreements underscore the commitment to fostering a robust ecosystem for innovation and growth in the semiconductor industry.

Expanding Horizons: AI and Beyond

The forum also highlighted the importance of cooperation in other key areas, such as artificial intelligence (AI). By fostering collaboration in both semiconductors and AI, Vietnam and Japan are positioning themselves at the forefront of technological advancement.

“The strategic partnership between Vietnam and Japan represents a significant step towards addressing the global shortage of skilled semiconductor professionals. By investing in education and fostering collaboration, both countries are paving the way for a brighter future in the tech industry.”

Ambitious Goals for Vietnam’s Semiconductor Industry

Vietnam is embarking on an ambitious journey to become a key player in the global semiconductor industry. According to Decision No. 1017/QD-TTG, issued on September 21, 2024, the nation aims to cultivate a workforce of at least 50,000 highly skilled professionals by 2030, with a long-term vision extending to 2050. This includes:

• At least 42,000 engineers and bachelor’s degree holders.
• A minimum of 7,500 master’s graduates and 500 doctoral candidates.
• training for 15,000 specialists in semiconductor design.
• Training for 35,000 employees in production, packaging, testing, and related areas.
• Development of 5,000 experts with deep knowledge in artificial intelligence for the semiconductor sector.

This initiative directly addresses the global chip shortage, a crisis that has impacted industries worldwide, from automotive manufacturing to consumer electronics. The shortage, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions, highlights the urgent need for diversified and resilient semiconductor production capabilities.

Japan’s Pivotal Role in Vietnam’s Semiconductor Development

Japan is emerging as a crucial partner in Vietnam’s semiconductor ambitions. Prime Minister Ishib Siger has emphasized the importance of Vietnam’s abundant and high-quality human resources, recognizing the potential for increased industrial production to stabilize the global economy amidst growing uncertainties.

The collaboration includes several key initiatives:

• Joint projects focusing on semiconductor design, manufacturing, and testing.
• Formation of Vietnamese engineering teams to participate in international semiconductor projects.
• Development of highly qualified personnel to meet Japan’s semiconductor industry needs.
• the vietnamese-Japanese University is preparing to launch a specialized training program for semiconductor chip technologies.
• Japan will host approximately 250 Vietnamese doctoral students in semiconductor-related fields, fulfilling half of Vietnam’s national strategic goal for doctoral training in this area.
• Strengthened personnel exchange programs in advanced science and technology.

These agreements are designed to contribute significantly to Vietnam’s goal of training 50,000 semiconductor specialists by 2030, a critical step in establishing the nation as a major player in the global semiconductor landscape.

Prime Minister’s Call for Continued Support

Prime Minister Fam Min Chin has urged Japan to continue and expand its support for Vietnam in strategic industries,including high technologies,digital transformation,and green transformation.this collaboration is seen as essential for fostering innovation and driving economic growth in both nations.