It has highlighted several sectors that face severe talent shortages and offer attractive scholarship opportunities.

At the 2026 University Admissions Guidance Day, jointly organized by Tuoi Tre  (Youth) newspaper and MOET on July 4, Prof. Nguyen Tien Thao said that after completing the national high school graduation examination, students are now entering the university application period.

The MOET representative noted that many jobs familiar today may soon be partially replaced by AI, while entirely new careers will emerge.

"Who will fill those new jobs? They will belong to people who know how to learn, adapt, combine technology with human-centered thinking, and solve real-world challenges facing Vietnam and the world. This year's admissions season is not simply about asking, 'Which university do I get into?' The more important questions are: 'Which path should I choose to develop my abilities?', 'What problems do I want to solve?', and 'How do I want to contribute to making society better?'" Thao said.

He went on to say that Vietnam needs young people willing to pursue challenging, emerging and long-term fields. He identified several sectors facing acute labor shortages, including key engineering disciplines, strategic technologies, AI, big data, semiconductors, cybersecurity, new energy, high-speed rail, nuclear technology, marine technology and space technology.

"These fields are not easy. But they offer tremendous opportunities for young people to contribute to elevating the nation's competitiveness," he said.

The MOET representative also highlighted the government's newly issued Decree No. 179/2026/ND-CP, which provides scholarships for students studying basic sciences, key engineering disciplines and strategic technologies. Eligible undergraduate students can receive monthly scholarships ranging from VND3.7 million to VND5.5 million.

"This is not merely financial assistance. It is also a message that the State values learners and invests in knowledge. It reflects the government's confidence in young people who choose demanding, emerging fields that are strategically important to the nation's future. But government policies only open the door. It is up to you to walk through it," Thao emphasized.

Don't choose a major because of peer pressure

Addressing students who have already achieved strong results in separate entrance examinations, Thao advised them not to become complacent. Those who have identified their desired major should carefully research academic programs, learning environments, practical training opportunities, research activities and career prospects. For those still undecided, he encouraged them not to be afraid.

"Being uncertain is not the problem. The real mistake is choosing based on peer pressure, fear, appearances, or making a decision without truly understanding yourself," Thao said.

He said students can pursue basic sciences, engineering, technology, medicine, education, economics, law, the arts or any other field, but they should remember that university is about more than preparing for a job.

"For many fields, it is choosing a lifelong vocation. Such a vocation demands compassion, perseverance, determination, discipline and sustained hard work. 

“Opportunities are not reserved for anyone in particular. If opportunities exist, they should be fair for everyone. But the greatest opportunities are often created by ourselves through serious learning, wise decisions, resilience after setbacks and the courage to take action today," he said.

He continued: "This admissions season is a valuable opportunity for you to overcome any doubts you may have had about your abilities in the past. Don't let anyone else define who you are. 

“Take action and show the world who you are. I hope you will work harder, remain humble, care more about your families and communities, strive to improve yourselves, and never settle for mediocrity or compromise with your own potential."

The MOET representative stressed that exam scores are important but do not fully reflect a student's abilities or personal value.

"Test scores may open one door, but they cannot carry you through the entire journey. What matters more is understanding who you are, what kind of person you want to become, what motivates you, and how you intend to contribute to your family, your community and your country.”

The value of a modern individual is not measured solely by academic achievements, degrees or job titles. It lies in living with compassion, integrity, resilience, a commitment to lifelong learning, the ambition to grow, and a sense of responsibility toward one's country," Thao said.

He also urged parents to accompany rather than pressure their children.

"They need advice, experience and encouragement. But they also need to be heard, respected and given the opportunity to mature through their own choices," Thao said.

Thanh Hung