Vietnam Launches Intensive AI Ethics Course

On May 12, the inaugural intensive course on AI ethics for public and private sector participants began in Hanoi, Vietnam. Supported by the U.S. Embassy, this initiative represents a crucial advancement in fostering responsible AI practices in the nation.

Taking place over two days from May 12 to 13, this “AI Ethics” course results from more than a year of collaboration between the U.S. Embassy and the Institute of Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence Innovation (ABAII).

Le Linh Luong, Deputy Director of ABAII, noted that the course aligns with the national AI strategy articulated in Decision No. 127/QD-TTg by the Prime Minister on January 26, 2021. This strategy aims to enhance AI ethics, governance, and policymaking skills among experts, officials, and developers.

Luong underscored that this training is vital for fostering a responsible AI ecosystem tailored to Vietnam’s legal and cultural landscape.

Elenita Tapawan, Director of U.S. Centers in Vietnam, stated that the course encompasses more than just technical aspects; it aims to enhance participants’ abilities to make decisions that are transparent, fair, and accountable, with a focus on human-centric approaches.

This initiative signifies the strengthening U.S.-Vietnam partnership in education and technology, encompassing collaborative research and student exchange programs.

As AI becomes increasingly prevalent, the need for ethical considerations in its development is essential. Without proper ethical guidelines, AI systems may pose risks such as bias, privacy infringements, and substantial social and legal ramifications.

During the course, participants—including technology engineers, government officials, researchers, and educators—engaged in comprehensive discussions on three key areas: ethical principles in AI development, responsible AI frameworks, and a comparison of AI regulations in the U.S. and Europe, facilitated by both local and international experts.

Instructor Dao Trung Thanh, Deputy Director and Chair of the ABAII Faculty Council, emphasized the necessity of embedding ethical values into AI, stating, “AI lacks conscience, emotion, or morality.”

Using case studies from fields such as transportation, healthcare, and recruitment, Thanh guided participants in balancing legal versus ethical considerations in AI implementation.

He reiterated that effective AI systems must prioritize the principle of “do no harm,” advocating for seven ethical principles based on global standards: safety and efficiency, data privacy, security, explainability, accountability, sustainability, and respect for human autonomy.

Thanh also highlighted the importance of community and expert involvement to ensure safety in AI development, advocating for accuracy in data usage especially in sensitive areas, rigorous testing, and continual assessment. Furthermore, he stressed the significance of transparent reporting and independent evaluations for maintaining system integrity.

Nguyen Hong Minh, Network Development Director at InterEdu (Microsoft’s education partner in Vietnam), remarked on the increasing importance of AI ethics. She pointed out that while AI training is expanding, ethical considerations often receive inadequate focus, despite being essential for responsible AI application.

She regarded the course as a significant opportunity to gain insights into AI ethics, particularly influenced by practices from the U.S. and other organizations leading in this area.

“We are all still exploring AI and need to adopt a learning mindset—taking small, correct, and consistent steps,” she concluded.