On the morning of May 15 in Hanoi, the State Organization and Labor Magazine, in collaboration with the Association for Southeast Asian Studies in Vietnam, organized the forum “Science and Entrepreneurs in the Nation’s Era of Aspiration and Advancement.” The event brought together more than 200 delegates, including policymakers, government officials, scientists, experts, and members of the business community.
Businesses as Pioneers of a New Growth Model
The forum underscored the urgent need for a development model built on meaningful collaboration among the government, the scientific community, and businesses. Knowledge and innovation were highlighted as fundamental drivers of sustainable growth.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Tran Nghi, Editor-in-Chief of the State Organization and Labor Magazine, emphasized that in the new era of development, science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship are not only engines of economic growth but also key pillars of national competitiveness. The forum served as a platform for policymakers, researchers, and business leaders to share strategic visions, connect resources, and advance sustainable development solutions.
Many presentations focused on critical topics such as institutional reform, digital transformation, and strengthening national governance capacity. Participants noted that in an increasingly competitive global landscape, national strength is measured not only by economic scale or material resources but also by innovation capacity, workforce quality, scientific and technological advancement, and effective collaboration across the development ecosystem.
In this context, Vietnam’s entrepreneurial community was identified as a pioneering force in transforming the country’s growth model, while intellectuals and scientists were recognized as strategic resources contributing to long-term national competitiveness.
A highlight of the event was the recognition ceremony honoring outstanding scientists, managers, entrepreneurs, and enterprises of 2026. The award recipients represented not only excellence in their respective fields but also a spirit of innovation, global integration, and commitment to serving the community.
Representatives of the Association for Southeast Asian Studies in Vietnam stressed that no sector can thrive independently in the current stage of development. National strength must be built through collaboration among government institutions, the scientific community, businesses, educational and cultural organizations, and international partners. They also emphasized the importance of transforming the connections established at the forum into practical initiatives that contribute to the country’s sustainable development goals.
The “Gem Within the Stone” Spirit and the Mission to Lead
As one of Vietnam’s notable enterprises in technological innovation, brand development, green economy initiatives, and international integration, Khanh Hoa Mineral Water Joint Stock Company (Vikoda) was recognized as a representative example of sustainable business development.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Nguyen Thi Nga, General Director of Vikoda, stated that Vietnamese women today have become an important force in business leadership and social value creation.
The Vikoda CEO shared: “Our company has always embraced the philosophy of ‘A Gem Within the Stone,’ not only in business but also in life. A gemstone can only shine after undergoing refinement, pressure, and challenges. Women in business are no different—we must continue learning, remain resilient, and persevere through difficulties.”
According to Vikoda, the company’s development strategy is built upon three core values: sustainability, humanity, and discipline. Sustainability, in particular, serves as the guiding principle behind its long-term strategy, aimed at building a resilient brand and operational system capable of withstanding market fluctuations.
After 36 years of operation, Vikoda continues to preserve its natural alkaline mineral water source in Khanh Hoa Province while consistently upgrading production technology and strengthening quality control standards. The company stated that every stage of the process—from extraction and treatment to bottling—is carefully monitored to ensure product quality and safety.
Beyond beverage products, Vikoda’s development vision also encompasses health and wellness solutions that promote balanced lifestyles. The company places people at the center of its operations through job creation, workforce development, and talent cultivation.
According to Vikoda representatives, the company follows a long-term growth strategy that prioritizes product quality, organizational development, and human resource investment over short-term expansion.
“In this ‘era of national aspiration and advancement,’ women entrepreneurs should not merely participate but become leaders through intelligence, discipline, ethical business practices, and Vietnamese brands capable of competing globally. If Vietnamese women once contributed to protecting the nation through courage, today they can help elevate the country through management excellence and entrepreneurial leadership,” Ms. Nga emphasized.
Source: Ho Chi Minh City Law Electronic Newspaper.
