Vietnam Learns AI Workforce Secrets from Singapore

Vietnam is turning to a regional tech leader for help building its workforce for the AI age, and the lessons could transform millions of careers.

The country is studying Singapore's success in connecting government policy with business needs, enlisting tech giants to solve national challenges, and ensuring no one gets left behind in the digital shift. Vietnamese officials are increasingly focused on learning new models and adapting quickly to technological change.

Prof. Vu Minh Khuong from Singapore's Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy sees real momentum. Vietnam is making positive progress as leaders update their knowledge and embrace fresh approaches to workforce development.

The critical next step is speed. Translating these insights into concrete results will build public trust, strengthen motivation across sectors, and create a virtuous cycle of further progress.

Vietnam is already pushing hard on digital transformation. The country is mobilizing technology corporations including Meta and Google to help address workforce challenges and unlock productivity gains through digital skills training.

The Ripple Effect

Vietnam's push goes beyond just AI skills training. The country is simultaneously building what officials call a "digital shield" to protect citizens from AI-generated misinformation and deepfakes, showing a comprehensive approach to the technology transition.

Officials are developing early warning systems to identify fabricated content, rapid verification protocols, and proactive communication channels. This three-pronged strategy ensures the workforce can both harness AI's benefits and navigate its risks.

The government is also exploring sovereign AI development, treating data as a strategic national asset. Effective data governance has become urgent for organizations and businesses competing in the digital economy.

The transformation requires patience and persistence. Experts note that developing cutting-edge capabilities like quantum technology could take 10 to 20 years of sustained investment and risk-taking.

But Vietnam appears committed to the long game, with officials focused on ensuring vulnerable populations aren't excluded from the digital economy's opportunities.

As cooperation between Vietnam and Singapore deepens, both countries are demonstrating that regional partnerships can accelerate technological progress and create more inclusive growth.