These professionals, likened to a "special task force," are responsible for setting up secure communication channels and facilitating high-level video conferences.

To learn more about the work of this special communications unit under the Ministry of Information and Communications, VietNamNet visited the Central Post Office. This organization is tasked with ensuring seamless communication for Vietnam's top government leaders.

The Central Post Office has three regional centers across Vietnam, with its main headquarters located in Quan Hoa Ward (Cau Giay District, Hanoi), the Central Office at Station T26 in Da Nang, and the Southern Office at Station T78 in Ho Chi Minh City. In Hanoi, the CP16 Post Office directly serves the government and includes various production units such as the Telecommunications Center, the Postal Center, the Telegraph Center, and the Network Operation Center.

We were greeted by Hoang Van Tien, a data transmission specialist at the CP16 Telecommunications Center. Having been with the unit since graduating, Tien has dedicated 22 years to his work at the Central Post Office.

With a sturdy build and a swift, amiable manner, Tien shared insights into the quiet yet crucial work of those tasked with ensuring communication for Vietnam's government leaders.

Ensuring communication for key figures

Established in 1965, the Central Post Office has been dedicated to ensuring communication for the Vietnamese government throughout its 59-year history. Even during the toughest years of war, the unit excelled in transmitting information effectively.

In today’s era, the Central Post Office remains at the forefront of technological advancement, integrating cutting-edge technologies into its postal, telegraph, telephone, and data transmission services for government agencies, aligning with digital transformation goals.

The Data Transmission Team at CP16 Telecommunications Center, where Tien works, is just one facet of the diverse responsibilities at the Central Post Office.

Besides facilitating video conferences for government agencies, the unit handles optical and copper cable connections and data transmission channels for various governmental services. Due to their unique role, they are likened to a "special task force," tirelessly setting up virtual conference points.

The sacrifices of communication experts

Recognized as a distinguished employee in the information and communication sector in 2024, Hoang Van Tien epitomizes dedication and perseverance among those at the Central Post Office.

He shared that, theoretically, his workday spans 8 hours like other civil servants. However, due to the need to prepare for video conferences, members of the Data Transmission Team often work overtime, regardless of the time or weather.

Unlike typical video calls on platforms like Google Meet or Zoom, government video conferences operate on private channels through a dedicated data network connecting government agencies.

When tasked with setting up online meetings for government leaders, Tien travels to the location to set up the virtual point, ensuring seamless communication. This often means working late into the night, sometimes until 9 or 10 PM.

The following morning, Tien and his team arrive early to conduct a final review of the connections, ensuring smooth video conferencing.

“We go where the conferences are. When leaders meet at provincial hubs, we and our equipment must be there to ensure the best audio and video quality,” he said.

In 2024, Hoang Van Tien and his team facilitated 188 video conferences for government directives, including 10 nationwide sessions and 15 international diplomatic meetings.

Passionately supporting national leaders

When asked to describe his work in three words, Hoang Van Tien said: pride, passion, and dedication.

Technical work demands extensive expertise, and not everyone can master it all. But for Tien, the job brings joy, fueled by the opportunity to learn from colleagues and enhance his skills.

With an unpredictable work schedule, Tien shared, "Sometimes my wife complains because I’m gone all day—out early in the morning, back late at night. Family events or gatherings are often missed because work requires my presence."

Balancing work and family is a significant challenge not only for Tien but also for his colleagues at the Central Post Office. Nevertheless, they strive to support each other to fulfill their duties.

Tien’s most memorable experience was assisting Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh during a COVID-19 briefing. He sat near the chairman, facilitating connections to districts and communes for real-time updates on the pandemic. This was when he deeply appreciated the value of his work.

“My family has a tradition of working at the Central Post Office. My mother inspired my career choice. I don’t have grand ambitions, just a desire to excel in my work and take pride in what I’ve achieved,” he said.

Like many dedicated “information soldiers” at the Central Post Office, Hoang Van Tien exemplifies passion and devotion to his work. Though their contributions may go unnoticed, they play a vital role in supporting Vietnam’s progress.

Trong Dat