Improving the institutional framework and policies for higher education to sustainably develop high-quality human resources in the new era

Abstract

This study analyzes the current state of institutions and policies in Vietnam's higher education system for training high-quality human resources. Using a descriptive policy document analysis method and a systematic analysis, the article focuses on evaluating the legal framework and training outcomes in terms of the capacity of the training institution network, scale, enrollment and training structure, quality assurance conditions, and the connection between training and the development of science, technology, and innovation. The research results indicate that Vietnam has established a relatively complete legal framework in the field of higher education; however, core issues remain: (i) university autonomy is only at the principle level and not yet substantive, especially regarding financial autonomy; (ii) state budget investment in higher education is low and lacks focus and priority; (iii) the relationship between universities and businesses remains largely formal; and (iv) there is a shortage of highly skilled human resources in core technologies and emerging technologies. Based on that, the article proposes a group of solutions to improve the mechanisms and organization for implementing efforts to develop human resources to meet the requirements of sustainable national development in the new era.