Vietnam has unveiled an ambitious plan to equip at least 10 million workers with basic artificial intelligence skills by 2030 as the country accelerates efforts to build a technology-driven economy.
The national programme on AI human resources development, approved by Deputy Prime Minister Le Tien Chau, aims to strengthen the country's technological capabilities and develop a workforce that can support strategic industries.
According to state media reports, the initiative seeks to ensure that AI literacy becomes a core competency for workers, students, educators and public-sector employees over the next decade.
Beyond basic AI training, the programme also aims to develop 10,000 highly skilled and specialised AI professionals by 2030, including at least 1,500 experts capable of conducting research, mastering core technologies and leading critical AI projects.
The strategy extends across the education system, with the government setting a target for at least 80% of secondary and pre-university students to receive age-appropriate AI education.
Vietnam also plans to ensure that all students enrolled in higher education institutions are equipped with AI-related knowledge and skills.
The public sector has also been identified as a key focus area. The programme aims to provide AI training to at least 90% of government officials, civil servants and employees in public service units.
Meanwhile, all workers in the education and training sector are expected to receive AI training, while at least 100,000 teachers, lecturers and education administrators will undergo advanced AI-related professional development.
To achieve these objectives, the government has outlined a comprehensive framework that includes strengthening policies and regulations, expanding AI education and reskilling programmes, developing AI specialists, improving links between educational institutions and industry, and investing in infrastructure, data and practical training environments.
Vietnam's latest initiative reflects a broader regional push to prepare workers for an AI-driven economy, as governments across Southeast Asia increasingly view AI talent development as a strategic priority.
By 2035, Vietnam aims to rank among the leading countries in the region for AI human resource development, signalling its intention to become a more competitive player in the global technology landscape.
The programme also underscores the government's focus on technological self-reliance, with policymakers seeking to build domestic expertise in emerging technologies rather than relying solely on imported capabilities.
As AI adoption continues to reshape industries worldwide, Vietnam's large-scale workforce training initiative could become one of the region's most significant investments in AI talent development.