Brian Jeffrey
The integration of the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) with the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) marks a pivotal advancement towards Vietnam’s digital transformation and the simplification of government frameworks.
Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh has recently approved Plan 140, which details approaches to reorganize and enhance government efficiency. A major aspect of this plan is the merging of MIC with MOST into a consolidated body.
The ministry’s potential new names include “Ministry of Digital Transformation, Science, Technology, and Communications” or “Ministry of Digital Transformation and Science and Technology.” This merged ministry will be responsible for overseeing the areas currently governed by both MIC and MOST.
The goal of the naming process is to maintain continuity and reflect the broad responsibilities of the new organization.
This unification is in line with the directives of General Secretary To Lam and the Party’s resolutions, aiming to create a comprehensive management model that addresses overlaps and enhances efficacy within governmental operations.
Pham Thi Thanh Tra, the Minister of Home Affairs, highlighted that the names of the integrated ministries should convey their inherited duties and primary roles. For example, “Ministry of Digital Transformation, Science, Technology, and Communications” aptly represents the extensive functions of the merged ministries.
To facilitate the merger, a collaborative Steering Committee, led by the heads of MIC and MOST, will be tasked with crafting a decree that specifies the structure, roles, and responsibilities of the new ministry. This process will also involve reconfiguring internal departments to improve efficiency and minimize duplication of efforts.
In his National Day essay titled “Digital Transformation: A Critical Driver for Development in the New Era,” General Secretary To Lam emphasized the necessity for significant reforms to enhance productivity and transform social frameworks.
He noted that digital transformation is not simply about utilizing digital tools in economic activities; it is about creating a new, sophisticated “digital production model.” This includes merging human and artificial intelligence and viewing data as a vital asset while reconfiguring ownership and distribution frameworks.
Additionally, he underlined the need to develop a streamlined, effective governmental system with fewer intermediaries while advocating for the use of IT and digital platforms to facilitate smooth data exchange among various agencies.
The General Secretary also pointed out the significance of linking digital transformation to aspects of safety and security, fostering digital advancements in society, economy, and among citizens. Essential actions include transitioning government functions online, providing advanced digital public services, and creating integrated national databases for demographics, property, and businesses.
The merger of MIC and MOST into the new ministry is perceived as a milestone in both the digital transformation and the restructuring of Vietnam’s political organization.
On December 5, Le Minh Hung, Head of the Central Organization Commission, provided guidelines for executing Resolution 18, which includes the proposed reorganization and potential dissolution of certain ministries and agencies.
Upcoming key dates:
January 15, 2025: The Politburo will assess proposals regarding ministry unifications.
Late February 2025: The National Assembly will review and decide on resolutions for establishing or dissolving certain ministries and making revisions to the Law on Government Organization and related laws.
March 15, 2025: The government will release decrees that describe the responsibilities and frameworks of the reorganized ministries.
By March 15, 2025, ministries are expected to complete their internal reorganizations, ensuring improved functionality and clearly outlined roles.
