Japan provides National Innovation Centre with ODA loan

ABO/NDO- The Embassy of Japan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed an agreement to launch the initiative "enhancing the innovation support capacity of the Vietnam National Innovation Centre (NIC)" with the total investment of 51 billion VND (nearly 2 million USD) falling under Japan’s grant-based Official Development Assistance (ODA).

Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Ito Naoki stated that Japan has identified digital transformation and innovation as key areas of cooperation, which means they will focus on collaborating with the NIC.

As the agency in charge of implementing the initiative, UNDP Resident Representative in Vietnam Ramla Khalidi remarked that this project comes at a crucial time when Vietnam prioritises investment and breakthroughs in science, technology, and innovation to drive high and sustainable growth.

The signing ceremony for the Official Development Assistance (ODA) grant contract for the development of the Vietnam National Innovation Centre was attended by Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Ito Naoki, UNDP Resident Representative in Vietnam Ramla Khalidi, and Director of the NIC Vu Quoc Huy. (Photo: UNDP Vietnam).

The project is expected to be implemented over 18 months, focusing on three key outcomes, including creating a favourable investment environment by supporting the establishment of the Vietnam Innovation Fund (VIF) under the NIC and developing a robust operational model aligned with international best practices, including clear progress measurement indicators. Secondly, the national innovation ecosystem will be strengthened by enhancing collaboration and connectivity among government agencies, academia, research institutes, and businesses. Thirdly, the innovation capacity and skills will be improved through implementing specialised training programmes on innovation management and design thinking as well as partnering with leading organisations to equip businesses, innovation centres, and government officials with essential tools to drive innovation.

This initiative supports Vietnam’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2045. The project aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production.

A strong emphasis is placed on empowering women in innovation. The project aims to attract at least 30% of startups led by women into key initiatives, ensuring diverse perspectives are integrated into the innovation process.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Vu Quoc Huy, Director of the NIC said this marks a significant milestone in long-term and effective cooperation among Japanese partners, UNDP, and the NIC. The project’s outcomes are highly practical and align with the NIC’s priorities for 2025 and 2026, particularly in finalising the model for the VNF and establishing a co-working space at the NIC Hoa Lac.

(Source: NDO)