Science and Technology

Bringing science, technology, and innovation to fields and farms.

In the durian-producing regions of Ea Ba and Seng Hinh communes, it is now common to see farmers scanning QR codes on each batch of fruits using their smartphones. Who would have imagined that in a region once attached to traditional farming methods, the production process would now be systematically digitized?

Mr. Cao Nguyen Lam, a long-time durian producer in Ea Ba, testifies: “Previously, despite meticulous care, it was difficult to gain the trust of distant customers. Now, thanks to traceability, the entire process from fertilization to watering to harvesting is recorded in the system. Buyers only need to scan the code to verify. As a result, the selling price is higher, and the market is more stable.”

A training workshop on innovation for members of youth unions, organized by the Department of Science and Technology.

This change did not happen spontaneously. Over time, the Ministry of Science and Technology has collaborated with research institutes and companies to implement numerous solutions aimed at integrating science and technology into agricultural production. From supporting organic agriculture to creating certification labels, and assisting in the implementation of traceability systems, these efforts have gradually contributed to improving the quality and value of durian-derived products.

The need for technological innovation is increasingly felt, not only in agriculture but also in other sectors. According to Mr. Pham Duy Khiem, vice president of the Vietnamese Swallow Association, the current market is flooded with low-quality products, which undermines consumer confidence. To build a lasting brand, companies must invest in modern technologies, from capturing swallows to their processing and preservation.

Mr. Khiem indicated that the company had once sought to improve its freeze-drying system to preserve the natural flavor of swallow nests, but faced challenges due to technological limitations. “Without collaboration between specialized agencies, experts, and solution providers, it is very difficult for companies to make significant advancements on their own,” he stated.

The above examples demonstrate that science and technology have become a determining factor in competitiveness. This is also the spirit behind Provincial People’s Committee’s Plan No. 092, which aims to directly integrate technology into production units to increase the value of agricultural products and improve living conditions.

Developing a long-term strategy

Building on these initial models, Dak Lak is gradually developing a long-term development strategy in which science, technology, and innovation play a central role.

According to the plan, by 2030, the province aims to increase the contribution of total factor productivity (TFP) to regional GDP growth to 42%, digital economy to around 30% of regional GDP, and the science, technology, and innovation sector to 4-5%. The province aims to be among the top 22 localities in the country according to the Innovation Local Index (IPI) and create at least 25 scientific and technological enterprises and 15 innovative startups.

The joint-stock company Ban Me Green Farm has invested in a freezing system and processing line that comply with export market standards and requirements.

To achieve these goals, Dak Lak has identified five priority areas: advanced agriculture; advanced processing industry; renewable energies; smart tourism and digital economy; and smart cities. These areas all present strong potential for technological application, creating significant added value and promoting economic restructuring.

According to Mrs. Lam Vu My Hanh, Deputy Director of the Department of Science and Technology, between 2026 and 2030, the unit will adopt a collaborative and service-oriented approach, instead of a traditional management logic. The goal is to place companies at the heart of the innovation ecosystem. Furthermore, scientific and technological activities will no longer be relegated to the background but must necessarily meet the concrete needs of production.

To ensure the necessary resources for implementing this project, the province plans to allocate approximately 1 to 1.5% of its total annual local budget to science, technology, and innovation. These resources should serve as leverage, attracting additional social resources and gradually affirming the crucial role of science and technology in promoting growth and strengthening Dak Lak’s position.

Van Tai

Source: https://baodaklak.vn/kinh-te/202604/khoa-hoc-cong-nghe-chia-khoa-tang-truong-b9652ae/