What are the key challenges in skills development in the context of the IR 4.0 and green transition?
In the context of Industrial Revolution 4.0 and green transformation, Vietnam's textile and garment industry is facing many challenges, including skills development for workers. One of the big challenges is updating and improving workers’ technology skills, especially in using and managing new technologies like automation, robotics, AI, and big data analytics for textile production optimization. At the same time, the green transformation requires workers to improve their environmental awareness and management skills (covering raw material management, waste management, chemical handling, energy saving, and efficient resource use).

And how important is re-skilling and up-skilling for industry resilience, competitiveness and sustainability in Vietnam?
Training and up-skilling are essential for the Vietnamese textile and garment industry's  competitiveness and sustainability. They not only boost workers’productivity, but also create the conditions to effectively compete in the international market, especially as Vietnam integrates further into the global supply chain through free trade agreements. Skilled workers are crucial for producing high-quality products that meet the ever-increasing demands of both domestic and international customers. Furthermore, up-skilling contributes to the industry's sustainable development by fostering innovation and future growth. This, in turn, translates to job stability, improved livelihoods, and enhanced social security for workers.

How can workers in Vietnam be equipped for product innovation or new technology such as 3D tech and automation?
Product innovation is a driving force for sustainable development in the textile and garment industry. Mastering new technologies like automation and 3D printing empowers businesses to boost productivity, elevate product quality, and achieve continuous innovation. To achieve this, equipping workers with the necessary technological and digital skills is crucial to adapt to these advancements.

Leading Vietnamese textile and garment companies, such as Tan De, Viet Tien, Garco 10, TNG Trading and Investment, TAL Vietnam, Bao Minh Textile, Phong Phu etc., are actively investing in new and modern technologies. These companies also prioritize workforce development through on-site training or sending workers to specialized institutions. The combined approach of promoting new technologies and providing training allows workers to learn and adapt quickly in a real-world production environment. This not only fosters technological understanding but also empowers workers to effectively apply new skills to their manufacturing practices. Furthermore, the industry is fostering closer collaboration between companies and educational institutions. This ensures that the workforce is equipped with the latest skills that align with the evolving demands of the modern labor market.

What strategies in Vietnam exist for attracting and retaining skilled talent? 
Facing a competitive labour market, Vietnam's textile and garment industry has adopted several strategies to attract and retain skilled workers:
· Competitive Compensation and Benefits: Businesses prioritize offering competitive salaries, attractive bonuses, and comprehensive social security packages. Additionally, they focus on providing opportunities for career advancement.
· Safe and Positive Work Environment: The industry strives to improve working conditions by fostering a professional, safe, and secure environment. This includes building a positive company culture and promoting a more modern and civilized image of the textile and garment industry.
· Skills Development Programmes: Textile and garment companies invest in employee development through on-site training courses, partnerships with educational institutions, and even job shadowing opportunities at leading companies. These programmes equip workers with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles.

Can you provide examples of successful collaboration models between institutions and enterprises in Vietnam and the benefits they bring?
There are numerous successful cooperation models between Vietnamese educational institutions and textile and garment enterprises. A prime example is the collaboration between the Hanoi University of Textile and Garment Industry with prominent companies across various sectors of the industry. This model provides training programs for engineers, technicians, and professionals in areas like management and marketing, catering to the specific needs of partnering businesses. Students receive a strong foundation in theory combined with practical experience, ensuring they graduate with the knowledge and skills employers seek. Another intriguing model is the school-in-the-enterprise-approach exemplified by Long Bien Vocational Training College, established by Garco 10 Corporation. With 18 member companies across Viet Nam, Garco 10 Corporation requires a significant workforce for its manufacturing operations. Long Bien Vocational Training College fulfils the need by providing trained and skilled labour. The corporation actively shares information on labour and skill requirements, participates in curriculum development, and offers internship opportunities with equipment and potential job placements for graduates. Importantly, Long Bien College's faculty consists of professionals with strong technical qualifications and practical experience within Garment 10 Corporation, ensuring the training aligns with the corporation's production needs. The benefits of these partnership models are clear. For enterprises, they gain a readily available pool of skilled workers tailored to their specific needs, while the college gains real-time industry insights to inform their curriculum development. Students benefit from a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience in a real-world environment, significantly enhancing their employability upon graduation.

How can the government in Vietnam support Skills Development, especially in the context of digital and green transformation? How does VITAS contribute to these efforts?
Approved in late 2022, the Vietnam Textile, Garment and Footwear Industry Development Strategy to 2030, with a vision to 2035, underscores the Vietnamese government's commitment to the sustainable development of this key economic sector. Human resource development is an important component, with skilled labour playing a pivotal role in the industry's digital and green transformations. The Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS) has actively contributed to these efforts. We collaborate with partners and businesses to organize training courses for improving workers’ skills and carry out trade promotion activities. VITAS also plays a key role in coordinating industry exhibitions and fairs that showcase new technologies. A significant initiative is our collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO) to assess skill needs and develop a skills strategy for the textile and garment sector. By working closely with businesses and training institutions, we identify current and future skills gaps and propose solutions. This empowers businesses to improve the quality of their workforce. We are confident that with government support, VITAS's efforts, and collaboration with various partners, Vietnam's textile and garment industry can effectively develop its workforce, meet the demands of ongoing transformations, and ensure future prosperity.