Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his wife left Hanoi on January 16 for Davos, Switzerland, to attend the 54th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) at the invitation of WEF founder and executive chairman Klaus Schwab.

Themed ‘Rebuilding Trust’, the January 15-19 WEF meeting, the largest of its kind since the COVID-19 pandemic, has attracted the participation of many leaders of countries and the largest international organizations ever. Delegates will discuss world economic prospects and new trends aimed at promoting economic, trade, investment cooperation. They will also examine ways to mobilize global strength, especially public-private cooperation, to create new growth drivers and solve common challenges in the current difficult, risky and uncertain context.

The meeting is expected to give Vietnam the chance to grasp the world’s development models, governance models and development trends, so as to effectively respond to challenges, and attract maximum resources for national development.

PM Chinh is scheduled to attend and address important discussion sessions, including some special sessions dedicated to Vietnam. He will chair many discussions with CEOs of leading corporations and have bilateral meetings with leaders of countries, international organizations and businesses.

After Switzerland, the PM will pay official visits to Hungary and Romania at the invittions of the government leaders of the two European countries.

Vietnamese PM’s visit to Romania marks milestone in bilateral ties

Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s upcoming visit to Romania is expected to mark a milestone in the bilateral cooperative relations, helping to enhance understanding of each other’s priorities and interests, Romanian Ambassador to Vietnam Cristina Romila has said.

Talking to the press, the ambassador held that the visit will continue to promote bilateral dialogue at the Prime Minister level, underlining that it will be a highlight of close ties between the two countries' people, which has been the foundation for the bilateral relationship over the past 74 years.

The visit will prompt new progress in the implementation of joint projects and the building of bilateral legal cooperation frameworks, she said.

The diplomat underscored that that the fruitful cooperation between the two countries over the past five years has affirmed the deep friendship between Vietnam and Romania. The two sides joined hands in setting major challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and made joint efforts to evacuate more than 1,000 Vietnamese citizens from conflict areas in Ukraine.

Romila noted that along with meetings between Romanian President Klaus Werner Iohannis and Vietnamese PM Pham Minh Chinh on the sidelines of international events, the bilateral political-diplomatic relations have seen new progress.

Particularly, when Romania held the Presidency of the European Council, the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) were signed, she said, adding that Romania was one of the first EU members to ratify the IVIPA.

At the same time, people-to-people diplomacy between the two countries has been promoted after the COVID-19 pandemic, along with cultural, academic and business exchanges. Representatives from 30 Romanian universities have visited Vietnam over the past two years. The Romanian Bucharest Symphony Orchestra performed in Hanoi and Da Lat in 2022 and 2023. A number of Romanian business delegations also visited Vietnam to seek partnership opportunities, helping to diversify bilateral economic cooperation, the diplomat noted.

Regarding major collaboration areas and priorities for the bilateral partnership in the coming time, the ambassador underlined that the 17th meeting of the Vietnam-Romania Joint Committee for Economic Cooperation last November achieved fruitful results. The two sides agreed on important cooperation mechanisms in areas of mutual interest such as trade, agriculture, sanitation, energy, labour, science, technology and culture, she said.

Romania can become a gateway for Vietnamese goods to penetrate into Europe, while Vietnam can support Romania to enter the ASEAN market, the ambassador said.

She stressed the need for the two sides to optimise the efficiency of the EVFTA to further open the doors for each other and draw more investment in areas of shared interest.

Indonesian president Widodo impressed with Vietnam’s development gains

The Vietnamese economy has been developing rapidly over recent years, and the Indonesian economy will be left behind soon unless it makes a change, Indonesian President Joko Widodo.

 Widodo, who paid an official visit to Vietnam last week, raised the warnings in his speech at an Indonesian Rectors’ Forum on January 15, saying Vietnam, with its increasing GDP per capita, could surpass Indonesia one day if no changes are made.

According to the president, Indonesia used to have the advantage of developing its economy some 30 years earlier than Vietnam. He cited data from the International Monetary Fund, saying Indonesia’s GDP per capita last year hit US$5,110, while the Vietnamese figure stood at US$4,320.

The Indonesian President expressed his impression of the master’s and doctoral graduation rate at 2.43% in Vietnam, while pointing out only 0.45% of the working-age population in Indonesia has a master’s or doctoral degree. In his view, the lack of highly educated human resources could create barriers to Indonesia’s goal of becoming a developed economy.

Widodo also said Vietnam has built connections between universities and industries, enabling universities to train workers needed by local industries.

Surveys by Indonesia Statistics (BPS) show that more than 70% of the country’s population is of working age, however, many graduates find it difficult to find jobs.

The president asked educational institutions and universities to immediately prepare quality human resources along with advanced science and technology for Indonesia to take advantage of its golden population in the next 5 to 10 years.

National Assembly reviews legal documents for submission: NA Chairman

Chairman of the National Assembly (NA) Vuong Dinh Hue asked legislators to thoroughly scrutinise the draft revised land law so as to ensure its highest quality, while delivering opening remarks at the fifth extraordinary meeting of the 15th legislature on January 15.

The document, together with the draft revised law on credit institutions, is expected to be adopted at the meeting, which will conclude on January 18.

Stressing the importance of the draft revised Land Law to politics, socioeconomic development, national defense and security, and environmental protection, the leader said it had been tabled for discussion at many meetings and received feedback from experts, scientists, and citizens.

After adjustments, the bill comprises 16 chapters and 260 articles, he said, adding that it is eligible to be submitted to the legislature for consideration and approval.

For the draft revised law on credit institutions, Hue noted that it is directly associated with financial and monetary policies and macroeconomic stability, and urged the legislators to give comprehensive opinions.

With 15 chapters and 210 articles, the law is expected to help ensure the health, transparency, and stability of the domestic banking sector as well as credit institutions, he said.

Touching upon the draft resolution involving special mechanisms and policies to accelerate the implementation of national target programmes, to be adopted on this occasion, the leader said the feasibility of each specific regulations should be considered at the meeting.

The deputies are also scheduled to look into some urgent finance and budget matters, including the capital supplement of the mid-term public investment plan with central budget capital for 2021-2025 from the general reserve source. They will also review the capital supplement of the mid-term public investment plan for the Vietnam Electricity from the reserve source of the mid-term public investment plan.

Hue emphasised that the meeting is significant to the implementation of the resolution adopted at the 13th National Party Congress and the 2021-2025 socioeconomic development plan, towards the 14th National Party Congress.

The leader called on the legislators to uphold the spirit of democracy and the sense of responsibility to complete the meeting’s agenda with high consensus.

Vietnam, Cuba nurture special friendship

The Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organisations (HUFO) on January 15 held a gathering to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the National Day of Cuba (January 1, 1959-2024).

Speaking at the event, Chairwoman of the city's Vietnam-Cuba Friendship Association Truong Thi Hien said over the past half century, the loyal relationship between Vietnam and Cuba has been tightened and expanded across fields including politics, economy - trade, defence - security, agriculture, construction, education, health care, biotechnology, transport, and sports.

Hien said that last year, the HUFO, the association and the Cuban Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City organised activities to strengthen the friendship between the people of the two countries.

For her part, Cuban Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City Ariadne Feo Labrada over the past years, Cuba and Vietnam have created a special relationship, particularly in 2023, when the two countries witnessed thriving cooperation. In addition, Cuba began to cooperate with Ho Chi Minh City in the field of grassroots health care.

She affirmed that Cuba is committed to continuing efforts to restore and develop economic, trade and investment relations with Vietnam in the coming time, and to reinforce determination and political will to promote the bilateral special relationship.

Cuba will also coordinate with Vietnam in promoting youth exchange activities, sharing information, upholding good traditions and fostering the special solidarity and friendship between the two countries, she said.

Vietnam, Czech Republic to boost environment protection cooperation

Vietnam and the Czech Republic will boost cooperation in environment protection and natural resources management, said Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Le Cong Thanh.

During a working session in Hanoi on January 15 with a delegation from the Czech Senate led by Chairman of its Committee on Public Administration, Regional Development and Environment Zbynek Linhart, Thanh highlighted Vietnam's progressive approach to waste management, including plastic waste.

He underscored that Vietnam has enacted the 2020 Law on Environmental Protection, featuring groundbreaking regulations on recycling, reusing waste, and promoting cutting-edge technologies for energy recovery through waste incineration.

Thanh pointed out the Vietnamese Government's commitment outlined in the National Power Development Plan VIII, which prioritises phasing out thermal power while increasing the share of renewable energy.

Furthermore, Vietnam, in collaboration with international partners, is actively realising the Political Declaration on establishing the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JEPT). This initiative aims to facilitate collaboration with global partners for policy refinement, technology transfer, and financial support to achieve an equitable transition towards clean energy.

Linhart, for his part, said the delegation wants to acquire Vietnam’s management experience in waste disposal, plastic waste pollution prevention and clean energy development. These are issues faced by the Czech Republic, particularly due to the escalating volume of waste and the fact that half of its energy is generated from coal.

He hoped that the Vietnamese Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MoNRE) and relevant agencies in the Czech Republic will further expand cooperation into additional areas while strengthening relationship in natural resources and environment.

In 2019, the MoNRE and the Czech Ministry of Environment signed an action plan for the Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation covering the 2020-2025 period.

All Vietnamese apprentices in Ishikawa confirmed safe following quake

The Vietnamese Embassy in Japan has officially confirmed that all Vietnamese apprentices in the Japanese prefecture of Ishikawa remain safe following the earthquake on January 1.

On January 15, the embassy announced ongoing efforts to assist Vietnamese workers in resettling their lives in the affected prefecture.

Phan Tien Hoang, First Secretary and head of the embassy’s Labour Management Department, assured that since the earthquake occurred, the embassy has been actively gathering information about Vietnamese workers. They have been providing relief supplies and collaborating with labour unions to relocate workers to safe shelters.

He noted that a majority of Japanese firms in Ishikawa have expressed their continued interest in hiring Vietnamese workers to contribute to reconstruction efforts.

The embassy urged the Organisation for Technical Intern Training (OTIT) of Japan to expedite support measures for foreign workers, including those from Vietnam.

The OTIT said in cases enterprises require an extended period to resume operations, labour unions will consider finding new jobs for apprentices, and the OTIT commits to expediting this process as quickly as possible.

Additionally, the OTIT has posted information on its official website in multiple languages, including Vietnamese, along with contact numbers for foreign apprentices to reach out in case of difficulties.

Vietnamese intellectuals in Switzerland pin high hopes on PM Chinh’s Davos trip

Vietnamese intellectuals living and working in Switzerland said they are interested in current issues that Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh will discuss at the 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF-54) in Davos, Switzerland from January 16, and showed their optimism about the success of the Vietnamese leader’s working trip.

Teresa Lien Freiburghaus, a lecturer at the University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland, said she wishes Vietnam to accelerate the digital transformation process in teaching.

Vietnam should apply new teaching methods, taking advantage of the technology power, thereby training a workforce that meets the requirements of companies and the country's development demand, she said, expressing her hope that PM Chinh’s trip will be a motivation to help Vietnam find solutions to improve the quality of education and training.

The WEF-54 will also focus on technological development, such as artificial intelligence (AI).

According to Dr. Luu Vinh Toan, head of the Natural Language Processing (NLP) department at Move Digital AG in Zurich, the most important role of technology development is to provide the value chain, so Vietnam needs to actively discuss and participate in this process.

He highlighted the role played by Vietnam in the semiconductor industry chain, saying that attending the meeting is an opportunity for Vietnam to take advantage of technological developments in other countries to strengthen cooperation.

He expressed his belief that Vietnamese intellectuals abroad, who have a lot of experience working in large corporations, are ready to contribute to the process of developing new technology chains in Vietnam.

Regarding climate change, Nguyen Thi Hai Van from the Wyss Institute said Vietnam has great potential to contribute to efforts to deal with this issue.

Topics related to carbon emission reduction, carbon credits or sustainable financial sources discussed at the event will be extremely effective solutions for countries, including Vietnam, she said.

NA Vice Chairman: Vietnam values traditional friendship with Czech Republic

Vietnam always attaches importance to developing friendship and multifaceted cooperation with its traditional partner countries, of which the Czech Republic is one of the priority partners, said National Assembly Vice Chairman Tran Quang Phuong.

During a reception in Hanoi on January 15 for Zbyněk Linhart, Chairman of the Czech Republic Senate’s Committee for Land Development, Public Administration, and Environment, Phuong underscored the nearly 75-year history of diplomatic ties between the two countries marked by consistent high-level exchanges.

Vietnam has evolved into the Czech Republic's largest trading partner in ASEAN, he acknowledged, expressing his confidence in the potential for further collaboration across various sectors.

He assured Linhart that Vietnam remains dedicated to creating a conducive environment for foreign investors, including those from the Czech Republic.

NA Vice Chairman Phuong extended thanks to the Czech Republic for officially recognising the Vietnamese community as an ethnic minority group, a gesture symbolising the enduring friendship between the two nations over the past years.

He proposed the continuation of efforts to facilitate exchanges at various levels, strengthen collaboration between friendly parliamentarians’ groups from both countries, and leverage the role of respective parliaments in overseeing and advancing the implementation of signed cooperation agreements.

Speaking highly of close coordination between the two countries at multilateral forums and international organisations, Phuong expressed his hope for the Czech Republic to continue with mutual support at forums like the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Asia-Europe Parliamentary Partnership (ASEP).

Linhart, for his part, stressed that his working trip aims to further bolster bilateral traditional friendship as well as relations between the two legislatures in the future.

Describing Vietnam as a significant and traditional friend of the Czech Republic, he proposed that both sides should further consolidate comprehensive cooperation between their legislatures and governments, making the relationship between the two countries more practical and effective.

Highlighting the potential for bilateral tourism cooperation, he hoped that both sides will continue creating favourable conditions to promote tourism activities, while enhancing cooperation trade, investment and people-to-people exchange.

HCM City launches traffic safety campaign ahead of Tet holidays

The HCM City traffic police checked drivers' alcohol level to make sure they were driving without using alcohol on January 11. — Photo www.sggp.org.vn

The HCM City Police have launched a traffic safety campaign to ensure traffic order and safety in the period ahead of Tết (Lunar New Year) and spring festivals.

During the campaign from January 11 to February 29, the Road-Railway Traffic Police Division (PC08) under the city's Police Department will strengthen patrols and strictly manage traffic violations on roads, railways and waterways.

Traffic police and traffic inspection forces will be especially vigilant during Tết (Lunar New Year) holidays and Lễ hội Xuân (Spring festival) in the city.

Nguyễn Văn Bình, deputy head of PC08, asked all traffic police officers and others to uphold their sense of responsibility, discipline and good behavior when communicating with people in inspection and supervision work.

After the ceremony, local traffic police units and relevant agencies from all districts paraded throughout the city on motorbikes and cars hung with safety traffic slogans.

In 2023, the city’s traffic police handled more than 650,000 cases of traffic violations, a year-on-year increase of more than 84,000 cases, and collected fines of more than VNĐ769 billion (US$31.3 million).

A total of more than 1,500 cars, 150,000 motorbikes, 1,200 three- and four-wheeler vehicles were temporarily seized and the traffic police revoked more than 108,000 driving licences of violators.

The city recorded 1,734 road accidents, killing 663 people and injuring 1,049 others, representing a year-on-year decrease of 411 cases, 116 deaths and 51 injured victims.

The above-mentioned results showed that traffic order and safety in 2023 in the city improved, positively contributing to the city’s socio-economic development.

In 2024, the city will continue to promote communication and legal education on traffic order and safety, raise awareness of law enforcement for road traffic participants, launch emulation movements on traffic order and safety, and call on people to actively respond to these movements.

It sets a target of accelerating the progress and improving the quality of construction investment projects, and upgrading transport infrastructure systems to contribute to reducing traffic accidents and traffic congestion. 

Đồng Nai Province sets ambitious target for new-style rural areas

Đồng Nai Province plans to have all of its communes recognised as advanced new-style rural ones by 2025.

The south-eastern province’s 120 communes have already been recognised as new-style rural communes under a national programme, and being recognised as advanced is a step up.

Lê Văn Gọi, deputy director of the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, said the former was achieved in 2019, and since then the focus has been on achieving advanced and exemplary status.

To attain recognition as a new-style rural commune, a commune must adhere to the programme's 19 criteria covering aspects such as infrastructure, irrigation, electricity, environment, income, education, healthcare, social security, and culture.

Communes must meet higher standards across all these criteria to be named an advanced new-style rural commune.

Currently, the province boasts 105 advanced new-style rural communes and 30 exemplary new-style rural communes.

Exemplary communes surpass advanced ones in meeting elevated standards, and the province aims to have 25 per cent of its communes acknowledged as exemplary by 2025.

The outstanding features of the province's advanced and exemplary rural communes include an annual per capita income of VNĐ80-90 million (US$3,300-3,700) and low poverty rates.

These areas exhibit well-invested infrastructure, predominantly paved roads, and a commitment to environmental protection and social security.

Rural communes have integrated the development of new-style rural areas with agriculture restructuring, focusing on modern, large-scale and sustainable production.

The province has created large-scale growing areas for pepper in Cẩm Mỹ, Xuân Lộc, Định Quán and Tân Phú districts, durian and rambutan in Long Khánh City and Xuân Lộc District, and mango in Vĩnh Phú, Định Quán and Xuân Lộc districts.

It has fostered linkages in the production and sales of agricultural products, involving 160 companies and co-operatives and 15,000 households.

Exemplary models, such as creating aesthetically pleasing new-style rural areas with road lamps, trimmed tree branches and proper waste disposal, have been implemented in Cẩm Mỹ District.

Vĩnh Cửu District's communes have introduced "knowledge houses" with books and computers to benefit locals, while exemplary residential areas prioritise environmental protection and climate change adaptation.

Women in the province play a pivotal role in environmental sanitation, tree care and maintaining clean village roads.

The Women's Union actively promotes women's roles through campaigns like "Five No's and Three Cleans," focusing on poverty reduction, legal adherence, domestic harmony, family planning, and cleanliness. Women groups aligned with new-style rural development have built 283 green, clean and beautiful roads totalling over 200km.

The province has formed 116 women groups and clubs with over 3,500 members dedicated to environmental protection.

The Farmers Association also reported proactive engagement by its members, who contribute land and labour to build infrastructure.

During 2018-23, they donated cash exceeding VNĐ 209 billion ($8.6 million), 147,000sq.m of land, and 67,000 working days to enhance rural facilities.

In this period, the province achieved significant milestones, repairing 972km of rural roads, upgrading 448 irrigation canals, building 128 bridges and sewage systems, completing 1,000 power supply projects, and upgrading nearly 34,800 healthcare and education facilities.

Vĩnh Cửu District's Bình Lợi Commune stands out as the province's first exemplary new-style rural commune, showcasing substantial improvements in its overall appearance.

Local testimonials attest to the positive impact of the new-style rural areas programme, highlighting enhanced infrastructure, improved living conditions, and successful collaboration between local authorities and farmers to establish efficient production models and concentrated farming areas.

Residents of Bình Lợi Commune, such as Lê Thị Nguyệt, acknowledge the transformative effects of the new-style rural area initiative.

With co-ordinated infrastructure investments, roads are cement-paved and supply of power and water for orchards has been improved, enabling farmers to reforming their practices, leading to enhanced incomes, she said.

“Exemplary residential areas boast a clean environment and guaranteed access to education, healthcare and social security.”

In Quang Trung Commune of Thống Nhất District, Đỗ Văn Hiệu shares similar sentiments, noting that the new-style rural areas programme has significantly altered the locality's landscape.

Commune- and hamlet-level roads now feature asphalt paving and street lamps, contributing to a green, clean and beautiful residential environment.

Collaborative efforts between authorities and farmers have resulted in effective production models and the establishment of concentrated farming areas yielding substantial incomes. 

Hanoi to implement solutions to reduce air pollution

Faced with continuously increasing air pollution, Hà Nội has implemented many solutions to tackle the problem.

The municipal People's Committee directs organisations to strengthen inspection and supervision to prevent straw burning, especially in areas near national highways and the Nội Bài International Airport.

​The Hà Nội Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DoNRE) compiled a list of districts with high rates of straw burning and sent it to the municipal People's Committee to post on the city’s portal.

The DoNRE presides and coordinates with departments of agriculture and rural development, industry and trade to encourage businesses to buy straw as a raw material.

The work will bring economic efficiency and help consume straw after harvest.

The Hà Nội Department of Science and Technology presides over and coordinates with the DoNRE to research and propose appropriate technologies for collection, transportation and treatment of straw in an eco-friendly manner.

In recent years, with urbanisation and expansion, Hà Nội has become one of the 17 largest cities in the world and is facing negative impacts due to environmental pollution and climate change.

The consequences seriously affect quality of life and sustainable development.

Shortage of environmental solutions and limited awareness of some residents are significant challenges for Hà Nội.

Air pollution in Hà Nội is exacerbated by seasonal transitions.

In summer, rain, high temperatures and strong winds reduce dust concentration. But in winter, there is little wind and rain and pollutant levels rise.

Harmful emission from production facilities, industrial zones, craft villages, construction sites and vehicles are not well controlled.

Statistics of the Department of Transport showed that Hà Nội has 7.8 million vehicles, not including vehicles from provinces and cities constantly entering and leaving the capital.

Many motorbikes are old, emitting black smoke into the environment making the pollution even more serious.

Recently, at the workshop "Air quality management for Hà Nội - From commitment to action" organised by the municipal People's Committee and the World Bank (WB), experts said that solving the problem required coordination among Hà Nội and neighbouring provinces.

The WB proposed different solutions to improve the air quality.

The capital city needs to effectively ban outdoor burning of garbage and agricultural waste, better manage agricultural waste and take measures to reduce street dust.

It should enforce motorbike emission control standards, and promote public transport and electric vehicles.

The city should also develop a sustainable waste management strategy to eliminate outdoor waste burning and increase waste collection, classification and recycling.

One more solution is addressing ammonium emissions from agriculture, and using organic fertilisers.

Another issue for Hà Nội is tightening emission standards for power plants, increasing renewable energy in accordance with Việt Nam’s commitment at the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 26) to achieve zero emissions by 2050, and reducing coal and biomass in craft villages. 

Common standards necessary to digital transformation in vocational training

With different levels of progress in digital transformation, vocational schools are calling for common standards for data synchronisation to improve training and management quality.

Digitalised lessons, teaching materials and integrated pedagogical methods have become more common in vocational schools, however, digital transformation remains a major challenge, especially for those in the more remote areas, said the principal of Đắk Nông Community College Dr Nguyễn Hữu Lành.

“Đắk Nông Community College was only established five years ago but it has a strategic direction of a key training facility for the region in alignment with digital transformation,” said Lành.

The school has also invested in and put into operation software for online learning, as well as automobile and inverter engine design and simulation, he added.

Lành said: “Our school puts special focus on digitising, developing, updating e-lessons and exploring learning resources, which are assigned to teachers.

“However, due to our geographic location and type of training, these activities are still spontaneous and not systematic, which means quality control is difficult.

“These shortcomings and bottlenecks, if not addressed, will hinder the school’s digital transformation process.”

Meanwhile, a representative of Bắc Ninh College of Industry said that the school has three different management software.

Student enrolment data input is being done manually, while this database could be connected to the data system of the Ministry of Education and Training (MoET).

The college has proposed the General Directorate of Vocational Training (under the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs - MoLISA) to issue a set of criteria and standards on digitalised vocational schools, which the educational institutions can base on to develop their own digital transformation roadmap.

It is also recommended that educator training should align with digital transformation, allowing hybrid training that combines online and face-to-face formats. Coordination between the General Directorate of Vocational Training and the MoET for student admission is also necessary.

A representative of An Giang Vocational College believed that a standard for data should be issued soon to connect the databases of vocational schools and the General Directorate of Vocational Training, instead of having to develop complex software for common use.

It will be difficult for vocational schools to use the same system due to their differences in training specialities, programme codes and evaluation methods, said the college’s representative.

According to Đặng Minh Sự, head of the vocational education division at HCM City Department of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, vocational schools are still fumbling with digital transformation due to inadequate technical infrastructure, in addition to the lack of digitised textbooks and lessons, a shared data system, as well as limited capacity of educators.

While multiple vocational school leaders have shown interest in revamping management and digital teaching, they struggle with implementation due to modest budget and infrastructure, he said.

Statistics from the General Directorate of Vocational Training show that 42 out of the 63 cities and provinces have issued a plan for digital transformation in vocational education.

The general directorate also received support in developing a set of criteria and standards to evaluate digital/smart colleges; and building a digital competency training module at intermediate and college levels to equip students with the necessary skills to respond to job requirements in the new context.

To develop digital transformation skills for educators, the MoLISA issued Circular No 06/2022/TT-BLĐTBXH which includes a teacher training programme on digital learning in vocational education.

Phạm Vũ Quốc Bình, deputy director-general of the General Directorate of Vocational Training, said: “The most important thing recently has been the change in the awareness of digital transformation among vocational education institutions and localities.

“Many of them have been more proactive in applying information technology in vocational training. However, digital transformation progress is not the same in every institution.”

In the future, the general directorate will continue perfecting policies and mechanisms for digital transformation in vocational education; issuing standards on digital schools, digital infrastructure and digital programmes, among others; and developing regulations on vocational education databases to ensure data synchronisation following the regulations of the Government and the Ministry of Information and Communications. 

Na Ngân Village's peaceful rise from poverty

One of the nine villages in the remote region of the central province of Nghệ An, Na Ngân is the most remote and difficult to reach.

More than 20km from the centre of Nga My Commune (Tương Dương District), people can only reach this isolated village via a steep dirt road running along the slopes of Pù Hiêng Mountain.

Currently, there are over 150 households with more than 750 inhabitants, all of whom are of the Thái ethnic group. Despite being mostly isolated from the outside world, thanks to the attention from authorities and the people's willpower, Na Ngân Village has been thriving and the economic life of the people is gradually improving.

According to the village elders, since the 1950s, Thái ethnic groups from districts like Con Cuông and Quế Phong have settled in this area, attracted by the perennial flow of the Nậm Ngân River, abundant water, fertile soil and a relatively flat valley. The village name Na Ngân translates from the Thái language as "fields beside the Nậm Ngân river." Beyond supporting agriculture and fish farming, the river has played a significant role in shaping Na Ngân Village for the Thái people, reflecting the saying "Thái people follow water, Xá people follow fire, Mông people follow mist."

The uniqueness and attention-catching aspect for tourists are the stilt houses, and roofs made of Pơ mu wood covered with moss. According to local Kha Văn Luận, currently, the village has six stilt houses with roofs made of Pơ mu wood. These stilt houses belong to the group of ancient stilt houses, built first in the village, having existed for decades, going through many generations in the family, the clan, with a unique architecture, bearing the very characteristic cultural identity of the Thái people.

Luận said that the villagers in the village are all Thái ethnic people with a tradition of building stilt houses. The first stilt houses built in the village last up to 70 years. Especially, stilt houses with roofs made of Pơ mu wood still have the original features from when they were built.

According to Luận, people in the village still maintain traditional Thái cooking methods. Especially during festivals such as Tết (Lunar New Year), there will be many dishes that bear the cultural identity of the Thái people such as fish paste, grilled fish, round black sticky rice cake, and square sticky rice cake with flower filling. During festivals, traditional Thái folk dances are organised by the villagers.

Along with Na Ca, Canh and Xốp Kho, Na Ngân is one of the four villages in poverty in Nga My Commune. Isolated from the outside region, with difficult and arduous transportation, Na Ngân's citizens mainly depend on small-scale agriculture, and small-scale livestock and poultry farming.

Though the proportion of poor and near-poor households is still high, in recent years, the people in the village have built self-reliant economic models, and step by step escaped poverty.

A remarkable change in Na Ngân Village today is the presence of two schools, a kindergarten, and an elementary school, right in the centre of the village, creating favourable conditions and ensuring that 100 per cent of students in the village are educated. In 2016, electricity came to Na Ngân for the first time, creating a significant turning point in the transformation of the village, ending the situation where people had to use oil lamps, generator sets, and water-powered turbine-generators.

A remarkable achievement to mention in Na Ngân is the construction of a road connecting the central area of Nga My Commune through difficult villages like Na Ca, Na Canh, Xốp Kho to Na Ngân Village, formed in 2010. Although it is a small, narrow dirt road with steep slopes, deep ravines, slippery and, on rainy days, only suitable for motorcycles, it has shortened the travel time to the village by many times.

Lương Văn Tiến, former head of Na Ngân Village, along with the early-generation teachers who ventured into the village, vividly recall the challenges they faced before the construction of the road. Traveling alongside the Nậm Ngân Stream, they grappled with the task of carrying motorcycles across the stream over 40 times. These journeys were demanding, requiring an early start, and often the villagers wouldn't reach the village until evening. During the flood season, the difficulties of the journey intensified.

Lương Văn Ớt, current head of Na Ngân Village, notes that considerable progress has been made since then. Today, most households in the village have access to amenities such as TVs and motorcycles, and many possess ploughs for agricultural use. The village boasts three families operating grocery stores, meeting the essential needs of the local residents. Besides engaging in livestock and poultry farming, villagers leverage the resources from the Nậm Ngân Stream to cultivate fish like carp and tilapia. Expanding grass cultivation areas and banana plantations ensures a stable source of food for livestock.

Additionally, villagers utilise the land along the Nậm Ngân Stream to cultivate various crops, including cassava and corn. During certain seasons, they venture into the forest to harvest bamboo shoots and honey, which are sold in the market to supplement their income.

The primary aspiration of the Na Ngân villagers is the expansion and improvement of the dirt road that connects the central area of Nga My Commune to Na Ngân Village. This development would include the construction of solid bridges over sections where the Nậm Ngân Stream intersects the road, facilitating smoother travel for the residents. Such infrastructure improvements are pivotal to boosting trade, enhancing economic activities and breaking away from the village's traditional self-sufficiency approach. Furthermore, the villagers call for surveys and initiatives from the Party committee and higher-level authorities to foster suitable economic models for the region.

Art club preserves traditional southern music

A series of performances offering folk music and songs will be staged at HCM City’s Labour Cultural House during the up-and-coming Lunar New Year or Tết holiday. 

The shows will include tài tử music, the prototype for vọng cổ (nostalgic tunes) and cải lương (reformed opera), which is a theater form that originated 100 years ago in the South. 

These events star veteran and young artists of Hương Sắc Nam Bộ (The Colour of South), a private art club that opened in 2003 in HCM City. 

The club attracts 40 singers and music players, including young talents from art schools and training courses at leading theatres in the city. 

The artists offer performances accompanied by Vietnamese folk instrumentalists on the tranh (Vietnamese zither), bầu (Vietnamese monochord) and nguyệt (two-stringed long neck moon flute).

Loan and her husband, music teacher Phan Nhứt Dũng, have worked to open and run the club. 

They are working to offer a monthly performance to meet the need of audiences.

Loan said her club’s shows are a fascinating performing arts experience in HCM City. “With each 40-minute show’s concept, we hope local and foreign audiences will learn more about Vietnamese culture in the South,” she said.

Special shows for Tết by artists of the club Hương Sắc Nam Bộ will be staged at 8pm on weekends, starting on January 20, at the city’s Labour Cultural House, at 55B Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai Street, District 1. The performances will open every night during the Tết holiday from February 10 to 16. 

VN performs well despite loss, says Troussier

Việt Nam's coach Philippe Troussier praised his players' performance despite a defeat in the Asian Cup opener against Japan, and said they would do better in the second game in Qatar.

The young side of Việt Nam made their Japanese rivals work hard before bouncing back from an early scare to win 4-2 at the Group D clash on January 14 at the Al Thumama Stadium in Doha.

Troussier went into the game against a side that had scored 33 times in their previous nine matches with the Frenchman hoping to minimise any lasting damage to his side’s prospects of advancing to the next round, and the performance left him placated.

“I’m satisfied because I want to consider this match against Japan as part of the process to qualify,” he said. “It’s not a knockout match, if we win or we lose, it’s clear the competition is not finished for us, or for Japan."

“The fact that we scored two goals could be an important detail because on paper, we are supposed to finish in the top three and we are prepared to finish in the top three.

“If we finish in the top three, qualification must come from the small details. Today, we got no yellow cards, no red cards and we scored two goals. I prefer to lose 4-2 than 2-0. This is what we needed.”

The 68-year-old strategist added that since he started working in Việt Nam, he has always reminded players to think beyond Southeast Asia and make leading teams, even the top 10 in Asia, respect Việt Nam.

"I always ask the players to do better when they have the ball. Even though we lost today, I want the whole team to recognise the positive things we have done and continue to improve for the future. They need to maintain confidence and positivity to prepare for the second match against Indonesia. Everyone understands that that is the key match, deciding a lot on whether the Vietnamese team will continue or not," he said.

Southeast Asia's No. 1 team received appreciation from not only their coaching board but also respect from the Japanese manager and players.

At the post-match press conference, coach Hajime Moriyasu confirmed that it was a tough game for the four-time champions, who are one of the tournament's favourites.

“I know people in Japan wanted to see a game where we overcome our opponents with great power, but opening games in tournaments are always difficult and that’s what we saw today,” the 2022 AFC Coach of the Year was quoted as saying on the-afc.com.

“Coach Troussier managed the Việt Nam players very well against us tactically and that made it difficult in the first half. At halftime, we had some difficulties in our defensive roles so I had to make a few adjustments with my players," he said.

“When we lost the lead in the first half the players were very calm, they knew they had the whole 90 minutes to play for the win. They managed to do that in the end of the first half. They were very focused and united as a team in order to get the victory in the first game of this tournament,” he said.

Meanwhile, MVP of the match Takumi Minamino, who scored twice along with an assist, admitted he was "surprised" by Vietnamese players.

"I've been playing against Việt Nam since I was young so I know how good a team they can be," said the former Liverpool forward who is now at Monaco. "But it wasn't just in defence, they were really good in attack as well. I was surprised by how good they were."

Việt Nam will meet Indonesia next on Friday while Japan will play Iraq.

VIRESA signs MoU with partners to promote Việt Nam’s esports

The Việt Nam Recreational and Electronic Sports Association (VIRESA) has signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of Việt Nam's Esports Development with three partners to push national esports development to a higher level.

Woori Bank Vietnam will become the national League of Legends team’s special partner in both regional and international tournaments. It was also a partner of the national esports team in international activities and local tournaments which were hosted by VIRESA.

Previously, Woori Bank Vietnam sponsored the League of Legends squad in a friendly match between Việt Nam and South Korea last September and Việt Nam esports team at the Asian Games last October.

Nguyễn Xuân Cường, VIRESA chairman, stressed that the support from the South Korean enterprise would make a significant transition for Vietnamese esports in 2024.

"This MoU will promote investment activities in the industry, creating better conditions for Vietnamese esports to achieve high results internationally, heading to the 33rdSEA Games in 2025 and 20th Asian Games in 2026," said Cường.

General Director Park Jongil said Woori Bank Vietnam hoped to create a healthy entertainment culture for the local young generation. The bank paid special attention to Vietnamese esports and wanted to join hands in raising awareness as well as spreading the healthy entertainment value of this sport throughout the community.

In the MoU with the North America Scholastic Esports Federation (NASEF), VIRESA expected to take resources of both parties to support the development of esports for the benefit of students, athletes, educators, and esports community.

Both sides would cooperate to implement esports education and training for students, which is one of the aspects that VIRESA focus.

The last MoU was signed with Golf 1 Studio of the GM International Sports Limited Company’s system and operation sector.

The two sides committed to work together in organising the e-Golf national tournament system, one of the new simulated sports generation. Tournaments included the national championship for professional, junior and female athletes as well as clubs' level events.

The VIRESA later held a ceremony to honour and grant grandmaster titles to athletes and coaches who recorded outstanding achievements at major international tournaments in 2023 such as the 32nd SEA Games and the 19th Asian Games.

It was an annual event to pay tribute and express gratitude to individuals, partners and groups which contributed to the development of esports; and look back at the industry's achievements.

Dry season heralds renewed forest destruction in Dak Nong

Authorities in the central highlands province of Dak Nong are trying to curb the rising number of forest destruction cases as the dry season comes.

According to the Dak Nong Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, more than 6.20 hectares of forest have been destroyed since the beginning of the dry season in October.

The MTV Dak N’tao Company is currently managing nearly 8,000 hectares of forest and over 3,000 hectares of forest land in the two districts of Dak Song and Dak Glong. The company has reported forest land being stolen by local people to grow coffee and pepper.

"More forest destruction cases have been seen recently," the company said. "The most recent case was found earlier this month with 8,590 square metres of forest being destroyed. We've co-operated with local police to arrest the illegal loggers who said that they wanted to take some land for farming."

Forest rangers in Dak Rmang Commune, Dak Glong District have also co-operated with the management board of Dak R’mang Protective Forest to detain over 10 people who were caught red-handed felling trees on an area of 8,446 square metres.

Speaking about measures to curb the problems, Phan Ba Nha, director of the MTV Dai Thanh Company which is managing over 18,000 hectares of forest and forest land in Dak Mil District said that they have had to send more teams to patrol the area.

"Our forest protection teams are now walking an average 10 kilometres and driving between 30-40 kilometres on motorbikes around our forest area every day to keep an eye out for illegal loggers," Nha said.

The Dak Nong Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development have asked local districts to set up stations that work round the clock to intensify patrols and checks along local forests for proper protection, especially during the coming Tet Lunar New Year Holiday.

New appointments in Ho Chi Minh City's leadership

On January 14, the Standing Committee of the HCMC Party Committee held a ceremony to announce and confer decisions on personnel appointments.

Mr. Nguyen Van Nen, Politburo Member and Secretary of the HCMC Party Committee, chaired the event. The ceremony also included Mrs. Nguyen Thi Le, Deputy Secretary of the HCMC Party Committee cum Chairwoman of the HCMC People's Council, and Mr. Nguyen Phuoc Loc, Deputy Secretary of the HCMC Party Committee cum Head of the Organizing Committee of the HCMC Party Committee.

Accordingly, the Standing Committee of the HCMC Party Committee issued decisions on mobilizing, assigning, and appointing Ms. Nguyen Thanh Xuan, Chairwoman of the HCMC Farmers' Association, to join the Party Executive Committee, the Standing Committee of District 3 Party Committee, and assume the role of Secretary of the District Party Committee; and Ms. Phan Thi Thanh Phuong, Secretary of the HCMC Youth Union, to participate in the Party Executive Committee, the Standing Committee of Phu Nhuan District Party Committee, and serve as Secretary of the District Party Committee.

Secretary Nguyen Van Nen of the HCMC Party Committee instructed Ms. Nguyen Thanh Xuan and Ms. Phan Thi Thanh Phuong to immediately undertake their new roles. As local leaders, they are to uphold the role model, adhere to their duties, and approach their tasks with the highest level of effort and determination to effectively carry out the assigned mission.

On this occasion, Secretary Nguyen Van Nen reminded the city's officials that the current juncture is a turning point to prove their commitment to working for the mission rather than merely for the position. Each official is urged to contribute and dedicate their best efforts. The HCMC Party Committee is actively seeking new, promising individuals with ethics and qualities in preparation for the upcoming term.

In accepting their responsibilities, Ms. Nguyen Thanh Xuan and Ms. Phan Thi Thanh Phuong emphasized the significance, gravity, and substantial challenges associated with their tasks. They pledged to exert maximum effort, set exemplary standards, engage in comprehensive development, foster unity within the collective, and collaborate wholeheartedly with fellow officials and party members to successfully fulfill their assigned duties and responsibilities.

Scientists warn of re-occurrence of severe saltwater intrusion

Saltwater from the sea has encroached into river mouths in the lower Mekong Delta region for 25-40km. In the context of El Nino returning, scientists warned of a re-occurrence of the dry season and severe saltwater intrusion like in 2016.

Localities in the Mekong Delta are hurrying to implement solutions for adaptation to drought and saltwater intrusion.

The drought and saltwater intrusion nearly 5 years ago caused Mr. Thai Anh Giau's 1 hectare of durians in the Mekong Delta Province of Tien Giang’s Cai Lay District to be severely depleted; worse, some trees died. Therefore, this year, Mr. Giau proactively took preventative measures. In recent days, members of his family has put all their effort into dredging all water storage ditches and digging ponds in the garden with a capacity of about 700 cubic meters to store fresh water when salt water encroaches on the garden. Mr. Giau and many farmers in the neighborhood also plan to use barges to transport fresh water to pump into reservoirs.

To prevent saltwater intrusion this year, the agricultural sector in the eastern districts of Tien Giang province recommended people adapt to the environmental changes by converting and restructuring crops and sowing the winter-spring crop earlier. In the province’s western districts, tens of thousands of hectares of fruit trees along the Tien River are easily affected by drought and salinity, so this year the authorities have completed the construction of 6 culverts on the road 864 to prevent salinity and will take fresh water from Nguyen Van Tiep canal for irrigation.

Director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Tien Giang Province Nguyen Van Man predicted that the 2023-2024 salinity and drought would be very complicated, so the sector proactively developed a response plan early. In the immediate future, the agricultural sector and localities agreed on the location of three steel dams to prevent salinity and store fresh water for durian growing areas of Cai Lay District and Cai Lay town, including Tra Tan, Ba Rai, Phu An with a total of Investment estimate of about VND34 billion (US$1.3 million). In the long term, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development will propose to build solid steel dams such as sluices on the road 864.

Meanwhile, Vinh Long, Ben Tre, Tra Vinh, and Bac Lieu provinces in the Mekong Delta region are also applying measures to cope with saline drought. For instance, the government and local people in Phuoc Long District in Bac Lieu Province have dredged silted irrigation canals to channel water and reinforce leaking irrigation works to prevent saltwater intrusion in the past half month to protect more than 10,000 hectares of winter-spring rice. At the same time, they pumped salt water out of freshwater areas and built more than 50 temporary dams to proactively manage water resources for production.

Local Tran Thanh Nhon in Vinh Phu Dong Commune of Phuoc Long District said that this year, saltwater intrusion occurred early, while extreme weather was predicted due to El Nino phenomenon. If drought persists and salinity increases above 25‰, farmers will face difficulties in their farming. Therefore, from the end of December 2023, farmers have made a response plan. Currently, farmers keep close monitoring of the developments in saltwater intrusion while still taking care of the orchards.

Ben Tre and Ca Mau are two provinces that are most affected by saltwater intrusion in the dry season in the Mekong Delta. Currently, authorities in Ben Tre Province are implementing many proactive measures to respond to drought and saltwater intrusion in the 2024 dry season.

According to the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Ben Tre Province’s forecast, the worst salinity intrusion on rivers will occur in February and March 2024. Saline water with a concentration of 1‰ is likely to penetrate the entire province from January to May 2024. The Ham Luong, Cua Dai river systems, Giao Hoa - An Hoa canal into the Ba Lai River will see the salt encroachment.

Vice Chairman of Ben Tre Provincial People's Committee Nguyen Minh Canh said that the Provincial People's Committee has directed sectors and localities to drastically prepare to prevent and respond to saltwater intrusion in 2023-2024 while also taking urgent measures in response to heat, drought, and water shortage.

At the same time, the local administrations promote the storage of rainwater and fresh water. Inhabitants should make use of water storage tools in ponds, roofs, jars, tanks, and water bags; dig holes covered with tarpaulin, water reservoirs in ponds, garden ditches, and local dams in each area as well as apply other measures to ensure there is enough fresh water to serve food, daily life and production needs in case of sudden or unusual increases in saltwater intrusion.

In the Ca Mau peninsula, localities which are highly likely to be affected by saltwater intrusion from the East and West seas have prepared plans to close sluice gates to prevent saltwater intrusion. Southern Irrigation Exploitation Company said that when the salinity level at Cai Tu bridge does not exceed 1‰ (1g/liter), the Cai Lon sluice remains open freely. But if saltwater intrusion is similar to the dry season of 2015-2016 and 2019-2020, 11 gates in Cai Lon sluice will be closed. Elsewhere in Hau Giang Province, salt water has now encroached into some communes in Long My District bordering Bac Lieu, but has not yet caused damage to agricultural production.

The Mekong Delta has about 2 million hectares of land for rice and fruit trees; so the region needs fresh water for irrigation in the 2024 dry season. Of that, about 400,000-500,000 hectares are frequently affected by drought and salinity in the dry season. Currently, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is promptly adjusting the operating mechanism of irrigation works in the Mekong Delta from the prevention of salinity and storage of fresh water for rice production to the regulation of salt and fresh water balance. As freshwater resources are dwindling at an alarming rate, the agricultural sector is promoting economical irrigation programs for upland crops with the goal that the country will have 700,000-800,000 hectares irrigated economically by 2025.

HCMC yellow apricot blossom farmers rush to prepare for Tet market

With less than a month remaining until the Lunar New Year, yellow apricot blossom (Ochna integerrima) garden owners in Ho Chi Minh City are diligently getting ready to cater to customers.

It was recorded that the yellow apricot blossom cultivation area in Binh Loi Commune, Binh Chanh District, has expanded by an additional 10 hectares compared to the previous year, accompanied by an increase in the quantity of yellow apricot blossom trees for the Tet market.

Although there has been an expansion in both the cultivation area and production, local yellow apricot blossom growers have yet to receive many orders from traders. Consumption is somewhat sluggish.

Furthermore, due to a decrease in customer demand for yellow apricot blossom seedlings and intensified price competition with other areas like Long An and Ben Tre, growers are progressively transitioning to cultivating potted yellow apricot blossom trees for the Tet market.

Bui Ngoc Duc, the owner of Huu Duc yellow apricot blossom garden in Binh Loi Commune, noted, "Previously, our primary focus was on supplying yellow apricot blossom seedlings to provinces and cities. However, in recent years, farmers have gradually shifted their investment towards cultivating finished yellow apricot blossom trees in pots and creating bonsai designs."

He elaborated, "Part of the reason is the challenging economic conditions. Instead of purchasing a large yellow apricot blossom tree for up to millions Vietnamese dong, customers tend to buy in a small bonsai yellow apricot blossom pot, starting from only VND300,000, which still brings a festive atmosphere to their homes during Tet."

Hoang Quan yellow apricot blossom garden in Thu Duc City is currently gearing up for the leaf-removal phase in preparation for the Tet market. According to Trinh Hoang Quan, the proprietor, "This year, the Tet yellow apricot blossom market is presenting quite a challenge, lacking favorable conditions for growth. The number of customers are expected to decrease by approximately 20% compared to the same period, and Tet yellow apricot blossom prices are likely to decrease due to the prevailing economic conditions."

The peak season at the garden is typically divided into two times. Starting from the 15th day of the twelfth lunar month, the primary clientele served comprises businesses. For retail customers, the peak period typically commences from the 25th to the 30th day of the twelfth lunar month.

Meanwhile, the flower market remains relatively stable compared to previous years. According to Nguyen Thi Thanh Thuy, a flower business owner in Long Binh Commune, Thu Duc city, this year's order quantity is still on par with previous years, and the prices of various flower types are holding steady.

Despite the broader economic challenges, the Lunar New Year holds significant cultural importance for people. Flowers are indispensable part of Tet celebrations, making the flower market a focal point of attention and shopping interest.

In this leap year, the influence of the El Nino phenomenon has prolonged the duration of hot weather more than usual, along with recent unseasonal rain. Consequently, yellow apricot blossoms have appeared earlier than expected. The early blooming poses challenges for growers in terms of care, resulting in significant losses.

More patients unsatisfactory with medical services

Low levels of satisfaction with medical services at public hospitals increased amongst patients, according to surveys.

The automatic survey system placed at public hospitals in 2023 recorded 12,522 patients were dissatisfied with medical services at public hospitals, an increase of 18.46 percent compared to 2022 with 10,571 patients.

The Department of Health of Ho Chi Minh City yesterday announced the results of a survey of patient dissatisfaction at medical examination departments of public hospitals in Ho Chi Minh City in 2023. Some 12,522 respondents showed their unsatisfactory behaviors to the services provided by state hospitals, an increase of 18.46 percent compared to 2022 but the number showed a decrease of 31.91 percent compared to 2020 with 18,395 unsatisfactory patients.

According to the Department of Health of Ho Chi Minh City, the number of dissatisfied patients when visiting public hospitals in 2023 increased compared to 2022 and mainly increased in the first 6 months of 2023. The last 6 months of 2023 saw a decrease of 2.17 percent compared to the same period in 2022.

The survey has shown that people are unsatisfied with the medical examination registration procedure. Approximately 2,125 respondents reported their unhappiness with registration procedures, an increase of 33.56 percent. Meanwhile, around 1,179 respondents reported their disappointment with health insurance examination procedures, an increase of 27.46 percent. Moreover, patients are also unhappy with unhygienic toilets, information guidance for patients, and seats while waiting for their turns to see doctors.

Faced with this situation, the Department of Health recommends that hospitals continue to promote and maintain surveys of patient dissatisfaction at medical examination departments to improve quality for patients’ satisfaction which will be used as a basis for the evaluation of the completion of hospitals' tasks every year.

In addition, hospitals are required to have more effective improvement solutions to reduce people's dissatisfaction, especially in registration and health insurance examination procedures, doctors’ examination and behaviors and communications of staff in healthcare facilities with patients.

Flu cases increasing across Northern region

The General Department of Preventive Medicine under the Ministry of Health yesterday reported that the number of flu cases has been increasing amid the impacts of long lasting freezing drizzle in the Northern region.

The Vietnam National Hospital of Pediatrics receives over 100 children being infectious with flu for examination and treatment every day.

Particularly, over 60 children infectious with flu have been hospitalized at the Tropical Diseases Center in Hanoi.

Besides, the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases is performing the treatment for over 20 flu cases with underlying health conditions.

Of which, some patients have been put on breathing machines due to severe respiratory failure, and even some severe cases have suffered from lung damage up to 60 percent after a few days of infection.

According to the Ministry of Health, seasonal flu is caused by influenza viruses, mostly Influenza A virus subtype H1N1, Influenza A virus subtype H3N3 and Influenza B.

There have not been any records of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Viruses to cause infection in humans, such as mostly Influenza A virus subtype H5N1, Influenza A virus subtype H5N6 or Influenza A virus subtype H7N9.

HCMC petitions for income policies for doctors, nurses

Ho Chi Minh City petitioned for remuneration policies for doctors and nurses working in medical grassroots facilities in districts.

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health yesterday said that it had just submitted its petition to the Ministry of Health. Simultaneously, the Department also advised the municipal People's Committee to remove difficulties and obstacles when implementing Decree No. 05/2023/ND- CP dated February 15, 2023 on amending and supplementing a number of articles of the Government’s Decree 56/2011/ND-CP on preferential allowances for civil servants, doctors and nurses at public medical facilities.

According to the Department of Health, improving grassroots medical capacity is one of the city's four key activity groups in the current period. In the coming years, the city’s policies of stabilized income will be one of the indispensable solutions which city leaders have been taking heed of.

Therefore, the sector will continue to recommend and advise on appropriate mechanisms and policies to satisfy the expectation of medical staff working at the grassroots and preventive health institutions.

Ministry honors outstanding artists, books in 2023

The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism held a ceremony honoring outstanding artists and books in the fields of literature and performing arts in 2023 in the northern province of Bac Giang on January 13.

Accordingly, rapper Den Vau was honored with the title “Artist for the Community” while the “Liveshow of the Year” award was presented to “Do Bao and Friends” by musician Do Bao.

Artists namely Hoang Hai and Kieu Anh received the “TV Outstanding Actor” and “TV Outstanding Actress” awards respectively. 

The program also honored 83 individuals who had high achievements at art festivals and contests in various fields, and books that were published, including the book entitled “The Teacher” by late Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Chi Vinh, former Deputy Minister of National Defense.

Brocade fashion show kicked off at Da Lat Arts Street

A brocade fashion show was organized at Da Lat Arts Street in Ly Tu Trong Street, Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province yesterday attracting residents and local and international tourists.

At the show, models wore 48 brocade outfits for kids, streetwear, parties and office outfits from a K'Ho ethnic fashion collection of designer K' Jona from K' Ho ethnic group.

The fashion show brought to the audience a new perspective on the costumes of the K' Ho ethnic people which is a combination between tradition and modernity.

The People's Committee of Da Lat City coordinated with relevant units to open Da Lat Art Street contributing to bringing art to the community and creating a space of exchange and creativity for residents and tourists in the center of Da Lat City.

Hanoi eyes cultural industry development in 2024

 In 2024, the capital's culture and sport sector will focus on developing cultural industries. The city government will identify regions and districts with available advantages, potential and resources to invest in the development of appropriate cultural industries.

This is an issue raised at the conference to roll out the tasks of Hanoi's culture and sports sector in 2024, which took place in Hanoi this week.

According to Vu Thu Ha, Vice Chairwoman of the Hanoi People's Committee, as the country's major cultural centre, Hanoi is focusing on developing culture to be worthy of the capital of a thousand-year-old civilization, building a city that truly crystallizes the country's culture and becomes a new source of development.

The city government has identified building quality and competitive cultural products as one of its priority tasks.

In 2024, while implementing resolutions, programs and plans on cultural development, especially cultural industries, Hanoi's cultural sector will build mechanisms and policies to promote innovation and develop cultural industries in all fields.

At the same time, the industry will explore public-private cooperation mechanisms in heritage management and utilization, cultural preservation and development as well as build investment funds and award funds in the form of public-private cooperation.

Hanoi will play host to a wide range of cultural events and art programs, such as the Hanoi International Music Festival, art festivals will also be held. The preservation and promotion of cultural and artistic values will be strengthened.

Faced with such an amount of tasks, it is necessary to improve the capacity of cultural managers, change perceptions and approaches in cultural management, and correctly recognize the role and position of culture, according to Vu Thu Ha, Vice Chairwoman of the Hanoi People's Committee.

In 2023, Hanoi's Department of Culture and Sports has coordinated the organization of 2,230 events of various scales, among which the Creative Design Festival, Food Festival, Hanoi Autumn Festival and others stand out. These events have created a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere for the city.

According to Do Dinh Hong, Director of Hanoi's Department of Culture and Sports, the "All People Unite to Build a Cultural Life" movement has contributed to fending off social evils and building a healthy cultural environment.

The management, preservation and promotion of the city's cultural heritage have been well implemented, Hong said.

Art units across the city staged 2,023 performances, including 541 performances for political purposes, foreign affairs and people in remote areas.

In addition to the results achieved, Director Hong also acknowledged the shortcomings in the city's promotional activities, performing arts and the functioning of pedestrian space. The implementation of projects to restore and beautify relics and special national monuments is far behind schedule. Some relics are deteriorated, damaged and in danger of collapsing.

Wild pangolin handed over to forest rangers

A resident in the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau on January 15 handed over a Java pangolin, also known as the Sunda pangolin, weighing 2.5kg, to the forest ranger office in Chau Duc- Ba Ria, Ba Ria city.

Le Nhat Hoang, a member of a forest fire prevention team in Dinh mountain area, Tan Hung commune, Ba Ria city, caught the pangolin when he was patrolling the forest on January 14. He then contacted the forest ranger office to hand over the animal, which is listed as a wild, rare and endangered animal species for which hunting, trading and consumption are strictly prohibited in Vietnam.

The Chau Duc – Ba Ria forest ranger force brought the pangolin to their unit to check its health before releasing it back into the wild.

Vietnam is home to two species of pangolin, the Sunda pangolin (Manid javanica) and the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), both of which are facing serious threat of extinction. The Sunda pangolin inhabits in the south and the Chinese pangolin in the north.

Hiếu Hoa Quahaco champion international Wika Cup 

Hiếu Hoa Quahaco won the second International Seven-a-side Football Tournament, the Wika Cup, on January 14 in Hà Nội.

The Việt Nam National Cup winners defeated Kickerz FC of Malaysia 13-3 in the final match at the Hoàng Mai District Stadium. 

Earlier, they beat national champions Đại Từ 4-2 and Nongpookao x Nongpoothan from Thailand 6-1.

With a maximum of nine points from three wins, Hiếu Hoa not only secured the trophy for the best team but also almost of individual awards.

Coach Nguyễn Trọng Tùng was the best coach; Trần Anh Tuấn was the best goalkeeper; Vũ Quang Việt was the top scorer with eight goals; and Lê Tuấn Anh was the Most Valuable Player.

In the other match on Sunday, Đại Từ beat Nongpookao x Nongpoothan 3-2 to take silver. Nongpookao x Nongpoothan placed third and brought home the Fair-play award.

Seven-a-side football has strongly developed in Việt Nam.

The special kind of football received massive attention from supporters all over the nation. It is gradually grown in the region with clubs in Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia.

The Wika Cup was the first international event in the region. In its two editions, there were eight participants and the number was expected to be increased in the next season as the organisers, Vietfootball Company, and sponsors wanted to make it an annual competition.

Source: VNA/SGT/VNS/VOV/Dtinews/SGGP/VGP/Hanoitimes