We are delighted to formally host the much anticipated 60th anniversary of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences. On behalf of the Party committee and the academy’s top management, I would like to start off by extending my warmest welcome and best wishes to our General Secretary, His Excellency Mr. Nguyen Phu Trong, the various state and government dignitaries, and the staff of our academy. I wish all of you good health, happiness, and success.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Decree no. 109/2012/ND-CP of the government stipulates the purpose and obligations of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences: “The Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences is a government institute that studies fundamental issues pertaining to social sciences; provides the party and state with scientific bases upon which to formulate roadmaps, strategies, plans, and policies geared toward the country’s rapid and sustainable development in a socialist direction; offers counsel on development policies; provides post-graduate education on social sciences; increases the country’s potential for scientific development.”
To get to where it stands today, the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences has undergone a process of relentless growth and maturation. To celebrate today’s 60th anniversary, let us reflect on the historic path we trod together, assess the academy’s development and achievements, and consider its growth outlook.
1. The Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences: A History in Brief
To advance our country’s scientific capabilities and promote development, on December 2, 1953, in the midst of the war against France colonialist, the Central Committee of Vietnam Labor’s Party issued decision no. 34/NQ/TW to establish the Department of History Geography and Literature studies, which was none other than the predecessor to the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences. Since then, the academy has gone by many names: Department of History - Geography - Literature Studies (1954), Department of Social Sciences (1959), Institute of Social Sciences (1965), Vietnam Social Sciences Committee (1967), Vietnam Institute of Social Sciences (1990, 2004), National Center of Social Sciences and Humanities (1993)… To elevate the importance of social sciences as perceived domestically and internationally, on December 26, 2012, the government issued decree 109/2012/ND-CP on establishing the name of Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences.
After 60 years of development, the organizational structure is now comprised of 6 VASS’s President assistant units, 35 specialized research centers, the Vietnam Social Sciences Review, 2 publishers, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, and the Graduate Academy of Social Sciences. The organizational structure of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences has been growing in terms of both and breadth and depth, which is indicative of wise decision making and of the application of knowledge gained from 60 years of experience in the fields of social sciences and humanities.
In addition, under the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences is an intricate system of 33 libraries, two of which are especially large and comprehensive. Storing just shy of three million information records that are not only diverse, but also highly useful for research, management, and other purposes. These two libraries are located at the Institute of Social Sciences Information and at the Southern Institute of Social Sciences.
By the same token, the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences is the parent organization of 33 scientific journals, all of which have been granted operating licenses by the Ministry of Information and Communications. Among those 33, 12 are made available in English in addition to their native Vietnamese. The publications serve as forum on which researchers and scientists and voice their thoughts and make contributions for the betterment of the country. From a political and scientific standpoint, the system of journals has carried out its duties well and has published results of researches conducted by both internal and external parties in a timely fashion.
Our staff have become more capable and mature in tandem with the growth of the academy. Overall, they are firm minded, loyal to Marx, Lenin, and Ho Chi Minh’s thought, as well as to the party and the people of Vietnam. They are highly responsible individuals devoted to scientific research. Moreover, they exhibit the will to learn, adapt, and meet the ever-growing duties assigned to them by the party and the state.
Sixty years have passed since the academy’s founding, and now we pride ourselves on our staff count, which approaches 2,000 individuals, 1,700 of which are researchers. Of those 1,700, there are 16 professors, 125 associate professors, over 200 PhDs, 500 master’s degree holders, accounting for over 50% of the total staff count. Realizing that the lifeblood of our organization is none other than our people, we put a lot of effort into providing training and encouraging them to soar above their perceived potential.
Over the past 60 years, we also put a great deal of effort into building such associations as the labor union, the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth union, and the veteran’s union. With activities dedicated to the party being of great importance to the academy, the party committee of the academy has managed to be regarded as very strong. It includes 700 party members that take part in 43 party cells and committees. In a sense, they are the nucleus of the academy, for they come up with key strategies and look after the wellbeing of the entire workforce. Our units are strong, cohesive, and co-exist harmoniously for the common purpose of elevating the academy to yet higher levels.
2. Notable Achievements of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences
In terms of scientific research, the academy has conducted research on policy advising and training. Our programs, projects, and studies are focused on urgent and pertinent matters in Vietnam and elsewhere around the world. These matters deal with the socio-econmy, politics, political systems, culture, people, ethnic groups, religions, national defense, … Research results are gathered and released domestically and internationally in scientific journals appearing in over 7 thousand publications.
It can be asserted that the research done by the academy has shed more light on socialism and the path to socialism that Vietnam is to take. The academy has executed many state-level and ministry-level programs pertaining to Marxism, Leninism, the Ho Chi Minh’s thought, current issues, and globalization. It is thanks to the results of these researches that our country will be able to reform its economy and society, and adopt a consistent view of socialism and the path to socialism.
Many of the academy’s employees have been directly involved in the drafting of documents on national party assemblies and decrees, and have had a part in the formulation of the 2011-2020 socio-economic development strategy with a vision to 2030…
By conducting research on domestic growth and learning from other countries, the academy has placed focus on studying socialist-oriented market economy in Vietnam, the importance of the state sector of the economy, the private economy, foreign investment. The aim is to apportion resources appropriately and propose a series of solutions to build better a better infrastructure and improve overall standard of living.
As Vietnam finds itself in an era of industrialization and modernization where knowledge and international integration are both prized, the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences has conducted researches and provided scientific results to aid in the cause. A number of studies pertaining to industrialization and modernization have shed more light on the intertwining relationship between the growth of a socialist-oriented market economy and Vietnam’s journey to become a more industrial and modern nation. Based on scientific premises, it follows that Vietnam ought to capitalize on its competitive advantages and endeavor to adapt to international standards.
In recent years, faced with complex changes on the global front and the demand for better national defense, the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences has made strenuous efforts to promote campaigns that benefit cultural and socioeconomic growth, as well as national defense. Some notable programs include: Science and Technology for Sustainable Socio-economic Development in Central Highlands (Central Highlands Program 3); Studies on Spratlys and Paracels Archipelagos; Southwest Campaign;…
With regard to political reform, the academy has played a part in establishing that socialism is integral to reforming our country’s political system. The party’s role is very significant. Several of the academy’s studies have greatly contributed to the betterment of our country’s political system, such as “Building a socialist state for the people, by the people”, “Empowering party leaders in this day and age”, …
The academy has also taken part in reforming the country’s legal system, by providing its input regarding the amendment of the 1992 Constitution and the document titled Legislative Policies for 2020.
Culture has always been regarded as highly important by the academy. As such, it has conducted many studies and undertaken many programs on this topic. Culture is the very foundation of society and fuels development. Vietnam consists of many diverse cultures. But together these culture form a harmonious aggregate. To the academy, it is important to promote these differences as they are what make this country so vivid.
The academy has carried out in-depth linguistic researches so as to create a set of linguistic laws for Vietnam. Literature is good for the mental well-being of the people. Fur cultural preservation purposes, the academy has published many scientific books: Vietnamese folklore, comprised of 19 volumes, Vietnamese folk music, comprised of 2 volumes, Collection of Vietnamese proverbs, comprised of 2 volumes, Vietnamese literature, comprised of 42 volumes. In addition, a gigantic collection of ancient Han and Nom characters was made. 9,000 Nom characters were converted into the IRG/ISO standard.
Many other studies focused on analyzing the values of Vietnamese culture in the past as well as present. These values mean a great deal to the industrialization and modernization of our country as it strives to further adapt to international standards.
The academy also conducted important researches on how society and people affect development. To achieve sustainable and harmonious societal development, it is necessary to ensure equality. People play a pivotal role socioeconomic development strategies, and it is important to understand their drives. Research results obtained by the academy lend credence to the fact that development should be for the sake of the people. That is the ultimate goal that socioeconomic policies ought to have. Reports on the development of the Vietnamese people from 2001 and more recently from 2011 have been met with positive critical reception.
In recent years the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences has delved deeper into the roots and growth of the Vietnamese ethnicity and of Vietnam as a nation. Research results are helpful to the party and state in formulating strategies aimed at building and protecting the country.
Research has also showcased the intelligence, determination, dedication, and innovativeness exhibited by the Vietnamese people as we went through centuries of building and protecting the country. It gave a better understanding of the advent of the South and the Central Highlands, which are an inseparable part of Vietnamese history. In addition, the academy has noted the ethnic solidarity made it possible for our people to uphold our independence and move toward a socialist society.
Researchers have observed the constitutional changes among a number of ethnic groups in certain regions. They have attempted to pinpoint the reasons for such changes, which might include political and economic benefits, as well as government policies. Southwest, Central Highlands, Northwest, and Northeast are sensitive areas that they deem to require special attention.
The academy’s aforementioned results have helped educate our country’s youth and promote Vietnam’s image as perceived by other countries. The results are a greate source of reference for policy makers at the regional as well as central level.
In terms of religion and faith, the academy has helped explain the relationship between the government and religion in Vietnam in this era of globalization. Religion and faith are essential needs to many people and as such play a role in societal development. The academy has also contributed to the formulation of laws on religion.
Ever since the 1980’s studying regional and international issues have been a very important part of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences’ development strategy. Such research helps the Vietnamese people better understand other countries, races, civilizations, and development trends. It also supports diplomacy with other countries. It is important that Vietnam have consistent methods of guaranteeing our independence, peace, and freedom. To this end, the academy has conducted key studies. Vietnam ought to be a reliable partner on the international scene, which will create favorable conditions for peace and sustainable development.
The Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences was one of the pioneer organizations to suggest that Vietnam take the initiative in joining the global economy. This is the key to the development of our country in this day and age.
Ladies and gentlemen,
One of our most formidable achievements over the past 60 years was to train a talented, high quality pool of human resources for the fields of social sciences and humanities. Prior to the inception of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences’ Granduate Academy of Social Sciences (2010), the Academy had 17 postgraduate vocational training centers. For the past 3 years or so, the Granduate Academy of Social Sciences was able to attract a large number of students from the Academy and elsewhere. By October 2013, the total number of master’s and PhD degree holders was 2,593, 1,000 of which are PhDs. Currently, the Granduate Academy of Social Sciences offers 29 areas of study for master’s degree and 44 for PhD. This marks a grand achievement by the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences as regards postgraduate education.
The Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences has overcome countless obstacles over the past 60 years and focused on researching essential, urgent, and practical issues. The findings have helped our country formulate development strategies, preserve our cultural values, and promote patriotism. Relations between the academy and various agencies and ministries at the provincial and municipal levels, as well as international organizations have continually improved. By now, the academy has worked with numerous science organizations from over 50 countries to exchange scientific knowledge.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Our relentless efforts and contributions did not go unnoticed over the past 60 years. The country’s leaders have long held in high esteem our achievements. Mr. Do Muoi, Former General Secretary, during his 1996 visit to the academy, had the following to say: “[the academy] has, at every step of the way, tried to catch up to the times and meet the demands for growth of our people in an era of changes”[i]. In 1998, Former General Secretary Le Kha Phieu acknowledged that “many of the academy’s products helped shed light on socialism and the path on which our country is moving”[ii]. Especially, “findings obtained by the academy were instrumental in the formulation of resolutions, plans, and strategies that are aimed at facilitating our country’s reform process”[iii], as noted by Former General Secretary Nong Duc Manh during his 2002 courtesy call on the academy.
Owing to our invaluable contributions to the country, many of our personnel have been awarded prestigious medals and trophies, including the Independence Medal, Ho Chi Minh Medal, and Gold Star Medal. In addition, 20 of the academy’s projects were awarded the Ho Chi Minh Prize and 24 projects were awarded the state’s Science and Technology Prize.
3. The Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences’ Development Outlook for the Period from 2011 to 2020.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Our achievements aside, we need to adopt an objective stance and recognize the areas in which improvement is needed. Up until now, many novel issues have yet to be resolved properly. The cooperation within the academy and between us and other organizations is still rather ineffective. Though we have many products, it cannot be said that they are all of high quality. We still have few truly stellar scientists that are able to manage and execute projects. We are also still bureaucratic in our operations.
In the near future, the academy needs to study significant issues and advise the party and the government. The findings we obtain must also be put to the test to see how they fare in actuality. This will be of assistance to the party and the government in the formulation of strategies, plans, and policies. To this end, the academy must do the following well:
First, we must become the country’s premier research institute that provides the party and government with grounds upon which to make decisions and devise policies. We must also produce highly competent people that will contribute to the fields of social sciences and humanities. We must be reliable not only in the eyes of our fellow countrymen, but also in those of other countries.
Second, we will focus on training and developing a workforce with a firm grasp of social sciences and that are able to resolve novel problems that may arise. Our people must be on equal standing with their international counterparts, and must be skilled not only at their areas of expertise, but also at management.
Third, we must make public key research projects to show to the world that we have status, reliability, and influence. Ultimately our scientific body of knowledge will benefit and so too will our culture.
Fourth, we are to focus on our party committees. We shall stand united and harmonious. We must strive to catch up to international players at least in the areas in which we have been traditionally strong.
The Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences will focus on the following key breakthrough approaches:
First, our human resources are the lifeblood of our organization. We also have to attract talent and value not just quantity but also quality.
Second, we have to modernize our infrastructure.
Third, we have to allocate our budget wisely. We will take the initiative in our decision making process.
In light of globalization, the academy has been establishing relations with international entities in order to learn of new research methods and gain knowledge. Such cooperation also presents itself as an opportunity for us to showcase our achievements and breakthroughs to other countries.
In the years to come, the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences will focus on studying the following:
First, study and clarify theoretical and actual issues raised in the 11th National Congress documents by the Party so that socio-economic development targets for the period from 2011 to 2020 can be met with greater ease; take part in the 30 year reform process and the drafting of documents for the 12th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam.
Second, branch out into all areas of social sciences research. We have to develop many things but none more important than our people. Study the correlation between sustainable development, economic growth... Work with various regions on the overall development of our country.
The above information forms the basis upon which the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences and other organizations can carry out the directives of the Party and promote science and national development.
Ladies and gentlemen,
To celebrate our 60th anniversary (12/2/1953 – 12/2/2013), allow me, on behalf of the academy, to express our gratitude to the Party, the Government, ministries, and agencies for having supported us over the past 60 years. We would also like to thank research institutes, universities, and our staff for having contributed to our mutual growth.
On behalf of the academy, I would like to convey our thanks to the following people: the late professor Tran Huy Lieu, the late professor Nguyen Khanh Toan, the late professor Dao Van Tap, professor Pham Nhu Cuong, the late professor Dang Xuan Ky, professor Nguyen Duy Quy, professor Tran Phuong, the late professor Pham Huy Thong, professor Vu Khieu, professor Pham Xuan Nam, professor Do Hoai Nam, the late professor Le Huu Tang, professor Ho Ngoc Hai and professor Tran Duc Cuong for your contributions, and to everyone else who played a role in the growth of the academy. We pay our respects to the staff members who gave their lives for the defense of our country. They have transcended into another plane of existence and are not here today to witness our success.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Before us lay important mandates issued by the Party, the Government, and the People. In the highest spirit of responsibility, we pledge to carry out our duties as well as we possibly can to be worthy of our country’s premier research institute.
On behalf of the academy, I would like to thank His Excellency Mr. Nguyen Phu Trong, General Secretary, for having graced us with his presence. I also want to thank everyone who has had a hand in supporting us. We hope to continue benefitting from your support so that we can do our best. I wish the General Secretary and everyone else here today health, happiness, and success.
Thank you all.
[i] Speech by General Secretary Do Muoi in his visit the Center for Social Sciences and Humanities in 1996, Nhan Dan newspaper dated March 2, 1996.
[ii] Speech by General Secretary Le Kha Phieu in his visit the Center for Social Sciences and Humanities in 1998, Nhan Dan newspaper dated Fabuary 18, 1998.
[iii] Speech by General Secretary Nong Duc Manh in his visit the Center for Social Sciences and Humanities in 2002, Nhan Dan newspaper dated April 29, 2002.
