Communication as a Catalyst for Development: Vietnam in the Global Context

On the morning of March 31st 2025, Faculty of Public Relations - Communications of Van Lang University organized the seminar “Communication as a Catalyst for Development: Vietnam in the Global Context” to discuss strategies for turning communication into a powerful catalyst that drives sustainable societal development.

The event brought together communication experts from Van Lang University, University of Education,  University of Danang, Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, and Bournemouth University (United Kingdom).

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Thi My Dieu - President of Van Lang University – remarked: Communication technologies are evolving more rapidly than ever, leading to a significant increase in public participation in social discussions. However, the explosion of digital platforms and artificial intelligence also poses major challenges regarding data privacy, digital security, media ethics, and the spread of misinformation.

Dr. Vo Tuan Anh - Dean of Faculty of International Communication and Culture, Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam - shared: Development is not only about moving forward but also about returning to the core values of the past. Preserving traditional values and restoring cultural heritage such as village communal houses, ancient banyan trees, water wharves, or rehabilitating natural ecosystems offers a sustainable solution to maintaining national identity and environmental balance. In this context, communication can serve as a vital tool to raise awareness and promote the value of cultural heritage and the environment in modern life.

Expanding on this perspective, Prof. Nguyen Duc An – Lecturer in Journalism and Public Communication at Bournemouth University, also Visiting Professor at Van Lang University stated that communication plays four fundamental roles in sustainable development. It is not only a bridge for sharing information and knowledge, but also a tool to shape public perception and positively influence community attitudes and behaviors. In addition, communication creates a space for open dialogue, encouraging individuals and organizations to speak up, initiate change, and engage in decision-making processes. It also fosters mutual understanding, builds trust, and strengthens collaboration among stakeholders.

Currently, Vietnamese businesses are facing many barriers in leveraging digital communication to enhance brand value and expand their market. The speakers emphasized that businesses need to invest in quality content, apply modern communication technologies, and build sustainable communication strategies to compete in the increasingly harsh business environment. Furthermore, training a skilled communication workforce should also be prioritized in the digital age. Accordingly, training programs should update various new skills such as data analysis, critical thinking, and content optimization on digital platforms. In addition, collaboration between universities and businesses in practical training is also an important direction to equip students with real-world experience, enabling them to better adapt to a professional working environment.

The seminar presented highly practical proposals that contribute to building a sustainable communication ecosystem, helping Vietnam not only catch up with global trends but also assert its position in the international communication field. The ideas and strategies derived from the event will continue to be researched and applied to optimize the role of communication in the journey toward sustainable development.

News: Duc Phap
Photos: Huu Khang