The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) has recently proposed retaining 27 units after merging with the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC), in line with the goal of streamlining the machinery as per Resolution No. 18. This is a significant step towards enhancing the efficiency of state management while ensuring professional specialization and practical needs.
Ministry of Information and Communications Headquarters
Headquarters of the Ministry of Information and Communications (Photo: MIC).
The Merger Process and Proposal for Reduction
Following government directives, the merger aims to reduce overlapping functions and enhance operational efficiency. Currently, MOST and MIC have a total of 47 agencies and units (with MOST having 22 units and MIC having 25 units). After transferring five units related to journalism and publishing to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the remaining number of units needing reorganization stands at 42.
To meet the requirement of reducing by 35%, MOST has proposed several solutions. Notably, it plans to retain three bureaus: the National Digital Transformation Bureau, the Digital Industry Bureau, and the Bureau of Information, Statistics, and Scientific Evaluation. These units are kept separate due to their distinct functions, tasks, and areas of operation, which will strengthen specialization and better meet practical demands.
Additionally, MOST intends to merge the Department of Science and Technology for Economic and Technical Industries with the Department of High-Tech into a new Department of Management and Development of Technology. This new unit will advise the Minister on managing scientific research, application, and development of technology in economic and technical fields, as well as high-tech sectors.
List of 27 Units Post-Merger
Based on the reorganization plan, the list of units under the new ministry after the merger includes:
- Postal Services Department.
- Department of Management and Development of Technology.
- Department of Assessment, Appraisal, and Scientific Evaluation.
- Department of Social Sciences, Humanities, and Natural Sciences.
- Department of Digital Economy and Society.
- Planning and Finance Department.
- International Cooperation Department.
- Legal Affairs Department.
- Cadre and Civil Service Department.
- Office of the Ministry.
- Inspection Department.
- National Radiation and Nuclear Safety Agency.
- Central Post and Telecommunications Bureau.
- Digital Industry Bureau.
- National Digital Transformation Bureau.
- Innovation and Science and Technology Market Bureau.
- Start-up and Science and Technology Enterprises Bureau.
- Intellectual Property Bureau.
- Radio Frequency Spectrum Bureau.
- Bureau of Information, Statistics, and Scientific Evaluation.
- Telecommunications Bureau.
- National Committee for Standards, Metrology, and Quality.
- Information Center.
- Academy of Strategy and Training in Science, Technology, and Communication.
- VietNamNet Newspaper.
- VnExpress Newspaper.
Notably, the Cybersecurity Bureau will not be part of the new ministry’s structure post-merger, as its responsibilities have been transferred to the Ministry of Public Security.
Significance and Impact
Streamlining the machinery not only reduces overlap but also creates opportunities for units to focus on specialized tasks. Particularly in the context of digital transformation and technological advancement becoming dominant trends, maintaining units like the National Digital Transformation Bureau and the Digital Industry Bureau aligns well with practical requirements.
However, to ensure effectiveness, MOST must continue to closely coordinate with relevant parties, especially the Government Steering Committee, in reviewing and considering proposals. This will help maintain stability and efficiency in state management.
Conclusion
The merger of MOST and MIC, along with the reduction to 27 units, represents a significant step in administrative reform. It not only enhances management efficiency but also lays the groundwork for the development of a digital economy and society in Vietnam. Readers interested in more details can refer to official sources or contact MOST directly for support.
Source: Dan Tri Newspaper
