A youngster in Japan speaks at the first panel discussion focusing on Science, Technology, and Innovation at the Vietnam Youth Forum in Kyushu 2026. Photos Chu Văn

FUKUOKA - Strengthening technology diplomacy, building robust ecosystems to attract high-quality overseas talent, and expanding the global reach of the Vietnamese language were among the landmark proposals presented at the Vietnam Youth Forum in Kyushu 2026.

Held recently in Fukuoka, Japan, under the theme “Connecting Knowledge – Creating the Future,” the forum served as a high-level platform for young Vietnamese intellectuals and entrepreneurs to align their expertise with national development goals. The event was organised to mark Youth Month 2026 and to celebrate the 95th anniversary of the Hồ Chí Minh Communist Youth Union (March 26, 1931 – March 26, 2026).

Over the course of 180 minutes, the forum featured three in-depth discussion sessions: Science, Technology, and Innovation; International Integration and Career Development; and Vietnamese Culture and Language Preservation. The event saw the participation of 13 speakers representing various professional fields.

Three pillars of discussion

The first session provided multi-dimensional perspectives on Hydrogen technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the pivotal role of youth in the digital era. Participants reached a consensus that Vietnamese youth in Japan possess a unique advantage in accessing cutting-edge technology, positioning them to serve as a vital "knowledge bridge" between Việt Nam and the world.

The second session focused on the entrepreneurial journey of Vietnamese people in Japan. Discussions ranged from real-world startup stories to legal frameworks, the business environment, and international partnership opportunities. Speakers highlighted the overseas Vietnamese business community as “economic-cultural bridges” that significantly bolster the cooperation between Việt Nam and Japan.

The final session featured profound insights into the roles of family, community, and the younger generation in preserving national cultural identity. Notable youth-led initiatives—from promoting Vietnamese culture on digital platforms to Việt Nam-Japan connection projects through education and sports—opened new pathways for the preservation and promotion of Vietnamese heritage.

Pioneering role of youth

Speaking at the forum, the Consul General of Việt Nam in Fukuoka, Trịnh Thị Mai Phương, emphasised the central role of the youth in the nation’s new development phase.

the Consul General of Việt Nam in Fukuoka, Trịnh Thị Mai Phương, addresses the Vietnam Youth Forum in Kyushu 2026.

“Our country is entering an era of rising up... The youth cannot stand aside, nor can they lag behind; they must be the pioneering force—because the breakthrough missions of the country today are inextricably linked to the intellect, courage, and resilience of the young generation,” she stated.

The Consul General expressed her firm confidence in the younger generation—those who have the opportunity to access advanced global knowledge while carrying the responsibility to contribute to the country's progress in this new era.

Alignment with national strategies

A key highlight of the forum was the close alignment between the discussion topics and Việt Nam's major strategic orientations. Regarding science and technology, the forum clarified the role of youth in implementing the Politburo's Resolution 57 on the development of science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation.

Furthermore, discussions on culture and the Vietnamese language were held in line with Conclusion 12 and the cultural development orientations of the Politburo's Resolution 80. These frameworks emphasise culture as a spiritual foundation and a unifying bond for the global Vietnamese community.

In his remarks, Nguyễn Duy Anh, member of the Vietnam Fatherland Front's Central Committee, General Secretary of the Global Network for Vietnamese Language and Culture Teaching, and Chairman of the Organising Committee said the forum is a space for practical connection, where the experiences, knowledge, and aspirations of the youth are shared and transformed into tangible action.

“We are here not just to listen, but to think, exchange, and act together. These are not just academic papers, but real stories, real experiences, and real aspirations,” said Anh.

Nguyễn Duy Anh, member of the Vietnam Fatherland Front's Central Committee, General Secretary of the Global Network for Vietnamese Language and Culture Teaching, highlighted the role of overseas Vietnamese youth as “people’s ambassadors”.

He noted that as the world is rapidly reshaped by technology and integration, Vietnamese youth in Japan face significant opportunities alongside era-defining questions: how to integrate without losing their cultural identity, and how to achieve personal growth while remaining deeply connected to their community and contributing to their homeland.

Driven by these concerns, the forum was established as an open platform to awaken a sense of responsibility, ambition, and the spirit of dedication among the global Vietnamese younger generation.

Anh also highlighted the role of overseas Vietnamese youth as “people’s ambassadors,” helping to promote the image, culture, and achievements of the nation to international friends, thereby strengthening the bonds of friendship between Vietnam and their host countries.

Furthermore, the Vietnam Fatherland Front reaffirmed its readiness to listen to and consolidate policy recommendations, research projects, and technological solutions from young overseas intellectuals. The organization views these contributions as vital resources for national development.

Finally, the youth are expected to remain steadfast in preserving their cultural identity and the Vietnamese language—the core elements that anchor the overseas Vietnamese community to their national roots. VNS

Uthe theme “Connecting Knowledge – Creating the Future,” the forum serves as a high-level platform for young Vietnamese intellectuals and entrepreneurs to align their expertise with national development goals.