Building, training, and retaining local human resources is considered a strategic direction for Gia Lai and surrounding areas to break through in the new era, according to experts.
At the seminar “Hieu dung – Quyet dinh dung” organized by FPT University, representatives from government agencies, educational institutions, and businesses discussed the creation of a high-quality workforce for the modern age.
With the theme “Preparing workforce in the AI era – A breakthrough opportunity for Gia Lai and the region,” the event attracted more than 600 parents and students from the Central Highlands and South Central regions. Participants learned about the rise of artificial intelligence, workforce demand, and guidance for young people to “ride the tech wave” and lead in the digital era.
Speaking at the event, Pham Van Nam – Director of Gia Lai Department of Education and Training – stated that parents and students often focus on universities in major cities, missing out on opportunities right in their localities.
“Each year, only around 65% of graduates pursue higher education. Nearly 90% of them go to big cities, while just 10% choose to study locally or in nearby areas,” he said.
According to the Director, students who study locally can take advantage of lower living costs—saving 30–50%—thus reducing financial burden on their families. At the same time, they gain a better understanding of their future work environment and have easier access to local or international businesses operating in the region.
Tran Tuan Anh – Vice Director of FPT University Ho Chi Minh campus and Head of Training at both HCM and Quy Nhon campuses – shared that the university is committed to supporting Gia Lai in digital workforce development. The institution has implemented various initiatives including improving training quality, expanding full scholarships, offering lower tuition fees compared to major cities, and especially providing interest-free student loans until graduation.
In addition, FPT University has invested in modern dormitory systems that meet international standards, and regularly organizes activities on campus to enrich student life. The university also partners with local businesses and has invested in an innovation center at the old Quy Nhon campus to create a startup and research space for students.
As part of the seminar, the live panel discussion titled “Vuot song AI: Kien tao nhan luc so tu Gia Lai – den khu vuc – ra toan cau” featured speakers including: Dr. Tran Ngoc Tuan – Vice President of FPT University, Dr. Dinh Tien Dung – Director of FPT Automotive Central Vietnam, MSc. Nguyen Tien Huy – CEO of Pencil Group, and MC Khanh Vy – a youth inspiration figure.
When discussing national development strategies in the digital era, speakers emphasized the role of young people and local training models. In the 5.0 and AI era, youth no longer need to leave their hometowns to pursue career opportunities, as they can work globally if properly equipped right at home.
According to Dinh Tien Dung – Director of FPT Automotive Central Vietnam, FPT Corporation – globalization opportunities are no longer tied to geography. The company has nearly 4,500 employees worldwide, over 600 of whom are based in Central Vietnam. Daily, FPT Automotive staff collaborate with partners in Japan, South Korea, the US, and Europe.
“Many Central Vietnamese are doing global work right in their hometowns, and among them are many outstanding talents,” Dung emphasized.
FPT University has also developed programs that allow students to access global environments while staying local. Dr. Tran Ngoc Tuan noted that students can take internships at major companies, study abroad, or even transfer between campuses nationwide (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Can Tho, Quy Nhon), all while maintaining consistent quality standards.
Besides focusing on quality experiences, the university also emphasizes training in technology and how to apply AI across disciplines. Critical thinking, self-learning, and access to tools are key to helping youth gain a competitive edge in the digital age.
With campuses across the country, FPT University brings modern education models to localities, aiming to nurture a globally competitive generation of youth unhindered by geography. This also expands learning and integration opportunities for students nationwide.
Beyond local workforce development, the seminar “Hieu dung – Quyet dinh dung” also explored topics such as major selection, career orientation, and skills for adapting to a job market rapidly changing due to AI. The event offered a space for direct dialogue between parents, students, and speakers to address concerns about academic pathways, career planning, and essential skills for thriving in the modern era.