VUSTA's Ninth National Congress for the 2026–2031 Term Scheduled for July 2026

The Ninth National Congress of the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations (VUSTA) for the 2026–2031 term is scheduled to take place over two days, July 9–10, 2026, at the National Convention Center in Hanoi. VUSTA issued Notice No. 224/TB-LHHVN on April 8, 2025 regarding the congress timing.

Congress timing and preparation

According to the notice, based on VUSTA’s charter issued together with Decision No. 1795/QD-TTg dated October 21, 2015, and a letter dated March 27, 2026 from the Standing Committee of the Central Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front (letter No. 2099/MTTW-BTT), the Standing Committee of the Presidium and the Standing Board of the Party Committee of VUSTA held a joint meeting on April 2, 2026. The meeting agreed on the proposed timing for the Ninth National Congress for the 2026–2031 term.

The congress is planned for July 9–10, 2026 at the National Convention Center in Hanoi. The article also notes that a workshop was organized by VUSTA to provide opinions on the documents to be presented at the Party Congress.

VUSTA’s development and current scale

Established in 1983 during a period when the country faced significant difficulties, VUSTA began with 15 member associations. Over more than four decades, it has developed into a major hub that gathers and unites science and technology intellectuals, contributing to national construction and defense.

Today, VUSTA includes 127 member associations, comprising 93 national-sector associations and 34 local federations, as well as more than 570 scientific and technological organizations. The network extends to millions of intellectuals and leading experts across fields, described as a core force and a form of “soft power” with influence in national development and defense.

Key contributions and policy engagement

Over 43 years of development, VUSTA has made contributions in advisory, critique, and social appraisal. It has participated in providing input and critique on numerous major national policies and projects.

Recently, VUSTA’s contributions to the political report for the 14th Party Congress and to strategies for socio-economic development, education, health, and the environment are described as technically rigorous, reflecting the aspirations of intellectuals from central to local levels on major national issues.

The article cites examples ranging from scientific arguments related to hydropower projects such as Yaly and Son La to delta flood management planning, as well as education, health, and environmental policies—supporting state agencies in refining institutions and making informed policy decisions aligned with national interests.

Knowledge dissemination, international cooperation, and recognition

Beyond advisory and critique, knowledge dissemination is highlighted as a focus area, including transferring technology to rural and remote areas. The article links these activities to poverty reduction and to bridging scientific and technological achievements into production and daily life, noting public appreciation for their effectiveness.

Internationally, VUSTA is described as expanding cooperation with ASEAN engineering organizations and major partners such as China and Korea, aimed at elevating Vietnam’s science and technology standing and deepening international relations.

The recognition and celebration of intellectuals is also emphasized as motivation for a patriotic movement in science and technology through competitions and science and technology awards. Awards organized by VUSTA, including the Vietnam Sustainable Science and Technology Award (VIFOTEC), are noted as having attracted thousands of entries.

Community development and state honors

Alongside political tasks, VUSTA and its member units are described as reinforcing roles in community development, including eradicating hunger and poverty, and promoting green agriculture and sustainable development.

The Party and State have acknowledged these achievements by awarding VUSTA prestigious honors, including the Ho Chi Minh Order, the Independence Order, and the Labour Order. The article also notes that many scientists have been recognized as Heroes of Labour in the reform era and awarded the Ho Chi Minh Prize and the State Prize for Science and Technology.

Role and statement

VUSTA confirms its role as the nucleus for gathering and uniting scientists and engineers in science and technology. It has also conferred Orders and Friendship Medals on the ASEAN Federation of Engineers Organizations.

Chairman of VUSTA: “Each national victory cannot be achieved without the significant contributions of the intellectual community, experts, and scientists.”