Brian Jeffrey
Professionals, described as a “special task force,” are dedicated to establishing secure communication networks and facilitating high-level video conferences.
Exploring the operations of this unique communications unit within the Ministry of Information and Communications, VietNamNet visited the Central Post Office. This entity ensures uninterrupted communication for the top government officials in Vietnam.
The Central Post Office has three regional centers spread across the country. The main headquarters is located in Quan Hoa Ward (Cau Giay District, Hanoi), with additional offices in Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City. In Hanoi, the CP16 Post Office caters directly to the government and consists of various production units like the Telecommunications Center, Postal Center, Telegraph Center, and Network Operation Center.
Meeting with Hoang Van Tien, a data transmission specialist at the CP16 Telecommunications Center, provided valuable insights into the essential yet discreet work carried out to ensure seamless communication for Vietnam’s government figures.
Established in 1965, the Central Post Office has been instrumental in providing communication services for the Vietnamese government over its 59-year history. Through times of war and now in the digital era, the unit continues to evolve technologically, incorporating cutting-edge technologies into its services for government agencies to meet modernization objectives.
At the CP16 Telecommunications Center, where Tien is stationed, the Data Transmission Team forms a crucial part of the Central Post Office’s diverse responsibilities. In addition to organizing video conferences for government entities, the team manages optical and copper cable connections and data transmission for various governmental functions, earning them the moniker of a “special task force.”
Hoang Van Tien, recognized as an outstanding employee in the information and communication sector in 2024, embodies the commitment and resilience seen among the Central Post Office personnel.
Despite officially working an 8-hour day like other civil servants, Tien and his team often put in extra hours to prepare for video conferences, regardless of the time or weather conditions.
Unlike conventional video calls on platforms like Google Meet or Zoom, government video conferences operate on a dedicated data network connecting governmental bodies.
When tasked with setting up online meetings for government leaders, Tien travels to the location to set up the virtual connection point, often working late into the night, sometimes until 9 or 10 PM.
The following day, Tien and his team arrive early to conduct a final review of the connections, ensuring smooth video conferencing.
Ensuring the best audio and video quality, especially when leaders convene at provincial hubs, requires Tien and his equipment to be present wherever needed, sometimes working extended hours.
In 2024, Tien and his team facilitated 188 video conferences for government directives, including significant national and international meetings.
When asked to describe his work in three words, Hoang Van Tien chooses: pride, passion, and dedication.
With a job that demands specialized expertise, Tien finds joy in continuous learning and skill enhancement through collaboration with colleagues.
Juggling the demands of work and family poses a significant challenge for Tien and his Central Post Office counterparts. However, they support each other to meet their responsibilities.
Tien’s most memorable experience involved assisting Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh during a COVID-19 briefing, emphasizing the importance and impact of his work.
Shared family ties to the Central Post Office have inspired Tien’s dedication to his work, striving for excellence and taking pride in his accomplishments without grand ambitions.
Amidst their unnoticed contributions, dedicated individuals like Hoang Van Tien symbolize the passion and commitment of the “information soldiers” at the Central Post Office, crucial in advancing Vietnam’s development.
