science and technology: Leveraging Socioeconomic Development in Digital Era

In the ongoing wave of innovation and development, science and technology (S&T) have become a strategic lever enabling Dien Bien to enhance productivity, product quality, improve people's lives, and modernize management practices. According to Vu Anh Dung, Director of the Department of Science and Technology of Dien Bien province, the sector's goal is to "transform scientific knowledge into a powerful driving force to promote the comprehensive breakthrough of the province."

Provincial leaders congratulate the successful Congress of the Department of Science and Technology of Dien Bien province

Accelerating digital transformation and S&T application

Since 2020, Dien Bien has implemented over 50 provincial-level S&T tasks, focusing on agriculture, healthcare, education, cultural preservation, and digital transformation. Numerous agricultural projects have applied new technologies in producing key products such as orchids, buffaloes, and goats, leading to increased productivity, economic value, and competitiveness. Social sector projects have also provided scientific evidence to support the development of mechanisms and policies aligned with local realities.

The S&T sector has strengthened the application of information technology in state management: 100% of documents are exchanged electronically, over 90% of public services are provided online at level 4, and the electronic "one-stop-shop" system is fully integrated from the provincial to grassroots levels. This solid foundation has enabled Dien Bien to enter the phase of digital government, digital economy, and digital society.

Leveraging its favorable soil and climate, S&T has supported the research and development of various indigenous plant varieties such as Seng Cu rice, Tan sticky rice, and Muong Ang Arabica coffee. These are produced using VietGAP and organic processes, enhancing the value of agricultural products.

By 2024, the entire province had over 4,000 ha of crops certified with VietGAP standards, 12 (One Commune One Product) OCOP products applying S&T advancements in processing and preservation, and high-quality rice production accounting for over 30% of the cultivated area. Farmers earned between VND10-15 million per ha annually.

The program supporting enterprises in technological innovation and intellectual property has also seen notable progress: over 20 businesses received assistance in registering trademarks and barcodes; 15 units improved production processes, reducing costs by 5-10%. Notably, the Muong Cha Agricultural Processing Cooperative applied freeze-drying technology and vacuum packaging, expanding markets to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and exporting to Japan.

In remote areas, S&T projects serving public welfare, such as solar energy, clean water filtration, and agricultural product preservation, have contributed to improving living standards, reducing costs, and protecting the environment. Simultaneously, training sessions, technical innovation contests, and startup clubs have spread the spirit of innovation throughout the community.

Key to a new breakthrough

"Our central goal is to make S&T a key driver in all sectors: from agriculture, industry, commerce, and tourism to cultural preservation and environmental protection," Vu Anh Dung emphasized.

The province aims that by 2030, science and technology and innovation will contribute 40% to GRDP. All OCOP products will meet quality standards and feature professional packaging and labeling, and at least three high-tech agricultural production zones will be established. In the context of deep integration, science and technology are not only tools to boost productivity but also "passports" for Dien Bien’s products to enter international markets. The close link between research, practical application, and local needs is creating sustainable development paths, laying the foundation for Dien Bien to achieve a strong breakthrough in the digital era.

By Ha Thanh, Vietnam Business Forum