Improving the adaptability of the Vietnamese labor market

The seminar was attended by Nordic and Vietnamese researchers, government agencies... With presentations and group discussions on topics such as how an adaptive labor market can effectively meet global needs, promote innovation, improve productivity and competitiveness.

In his opening remarks, President of Fulbright University Vietnam, Professor Scott Fritzen, said: “As an institution committed to promoting innovation, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary approaches, Fulbright University recognizes the importance of learning from successful models such as the Nordic Region. At the same time, we believe that this event will provide valuable insights and inspire useful strategies to shape Vietnam’s future workforce.”

Speaking at the event, Swedish Ambassador Ann Mawe stressed that employers, unions and governments in the Nordic region are working closely together to create a well-developed social safety net for individuals. This model, often referred to as the “Nordic model”, has attracted international attention and has been recognised for the region’s resilience during the recent economic crisis. Free education and significant investment in research have contributed to the formation of highly educated citizens and a modern, high-tech society.

According to Norwegian Ambassador Hilde Solbakken, dialogue between the Government, employers and employees is both a key element in the development of Nordic welfare states and helps the economy and labor market adapt better to a constantly changing world.

Vietnam is aiming to become a higher-income, net-zero emissions country by 2050. To achieve this, Vietnam is shifting its labor market towards high-tech, high-skilled industries and technologies. This shift requires a focus on innovation, digitalization, vocational training, education, skills development, and investment in research and development.

Embassies of Nordic countries in Vietnam expressed their strong desire to contribute to a dynamic and developing labor market in Vietnam. Photo: Organizing Committee — The Nordic embassies in Vietnam expressed their strong desire to contribute to a dynamic and developing labor market in Vietnam. Photo: Organizing Committee

"Social security and innovation are key factors in the success of the Nordic region. In addition, the Nordic countries also pay great attention to work-life balance," said Finnish Ambassador Keijo Norvanto.

Danish Ambassador Nicolai Prytz said that the green transition cannot happen without a workforce with the right skills to meet the demands of a greener economy. The green transition brings new job opportunities but also risks leaving behind low-skilled workers, those working in the informal sector or in polluting jobs.

Representatives of the four Nordic countries also emphasized their desire to share the experiences and lessons that the Nordic countries have gained from the green transition over the past 40 years, to serve as inspiration for Vietnam to develop a labor market that not only effectively meets the needs of the ongoing green transition, but equally important, ensures that this is a fair labor transition and takes into account the economic concerns of vulnerable groups.

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