Resolution 57 on the science and technology, innovation alongside digital transformation (STI&DT) development is generating a powerful transformation from urban to rural areas, emerging as a driving force for sustainable development through innovative thinking.

In hamlet 6, Cu M’gar commune, Mr. Pham Van Thinh is among the exemplary farmers mastering technology to transform traditional farming practices. With nearly 2 hectares of orchards, he no longer relies entirely on experience-based cultivation. Instead, he has proactively installed and mastered the “Digital Farmer” application to diagnose crop diseases, update weather forecasts as well as receive recommendations on water-saving irrigation techniques.

Farmer Pham Van Thinh (right), in hamlet 6, Cu M’gar commune, searching online for agricultural information and installing digital banking applications.

Digital technology has also reached markets from urban centres to rural areas, as cashless payments are becoming increasingly widespread. QR payment codes are now visible at meat stalls, vegetable vendors and even small grocery shops along village roads combined with alleyways. Transactions are carried out quickly, accurately, conveniently and transparently.

Turning development goals into reality

Dak Lak has translated Resolution 57 into concrete models and tasks aligned with local realities. DT is now reflected through the provincial Dashboard management system along with “Digital Dak Lak” application. Concurrently, the “Digital literacy for all” movement alongside the “Each commune and ward has one KOL” project have fostered digital economic thinking in villages coupled with hamlets.

The province is also prioritising resources to implement Resolution 57 in a more comprehensive and synchronised manner while accelerating governance reforms and  promoting coordinated STI&DT development. Simultaneously, it is focusing on completing digital infrastructure as well as shared databases; improving digital human resource quality; promoting linkages among “the state - scientists - enterprises”; while the role of leaders continues to be placed at the centre.

Residents of Ea M'Droh commune receiving guidance on using online public services.

Resolution 57 is increasingly emerging as a new growth driver, enabling the province to pursue rapid and sustainable development. However, several shortcomings remain in implementing the resolution across the province, including limited awareness among some Party committees, Party organisations, cadres together with Party members; a shortage of specialised personnel; and fragmented digital infrastructure despite continued investment, particularly in remote coupled with isolated areas. Information security and cybersecurity work also continue to face potential risks.

In response to these realities, the provincial Steering Committee for STI&DT development has requested that all sectors, agencies along with localities specify implementation task lists with clearly defined outputs measurable through indicators, tied to completion deadlines, financial resources, leadership accountability and data-based supervision.

The province has also introduced a series of reform measures, including institutional improvement, increased investment in S&T research and development, together with encouraging while supporting enterprises to participate in innovation activities. In particular, it is accelerating the STI&DT application directly serving production and business activities of enterprises combined with the broader economy. To realise the double-digit growth target, Dak Lak is reviewing and selecting up to eight “major problems” related to shared data, digital infrastructure as well as digital enterprises for focused resolution in 2026.

Concurrently, the province is concentrating on removing financial bottlenecks, ensuring that at least 3% of total annual budget expenditure is allocated to STI&DT development.

Translated by KHUONG THAO