October 1 is observed annually as National Innovation Day in Vietnam, promoting a culture of innovation and encouraging research, development, technology application, and technology transfer across society.In response to National Innovation Day 2026 under the theme “Innovation – A Driving Force for the Development of Society,” University of Information Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (UIT) continues to build on its strengths in Information Technology, scientific research, and industry collaboration, creating an environment where new ideas can be developed and directed toward solving real-world challenges. The 2026 theme is reflected in information published by Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology. Science, technology, and innovation as drivers of developmentAs science and technology continue to transform virtually every aspect of economic and social life, the ability to conduct research, master technologies, and foster innovation has become increasingly important to national development.Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW, issued by the Politburo on December 22, 2024, identifies the development of science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation as a top strategic breakthrough and a key driver for advancing modern productive forces, transforming governance, and promoting socio-economic development.Among its major directions, the Resolution emphasizes investment in research centers, testing facilities, and laboratories; the development of strategic technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, semiconductors, robotics, and automation; and the development of high-quality human resources for science, engineering, technology, and digital transformation. In this context, innovation is not limited to research institutes, universities, or technology companies. Its broader value lies in mobilizing knowledge, technology, and resources across society to create new products, solutions, and approaches capable of addressing real-world challenges.From ideas to research, experimentation, and applicationWithin a university, innovation can begin with education and research. A student’s idea may emerge in the classroom, develop into a research project in a laboratory, and continue to evolve through collaboration with faculty members and industry partners before becoming a product or solution with practical potential.Building an innovation environment therefore involves more than encouraging new ideas. It also requires creating opportunities for students and researchers to experiment, access technological resources, collaborate across disciplines, and engage with real-world challenges.This is one of the important roles universities play within the innovation ecosystem: developing human resources, generating new knowledge, advancing technology, and connecting research with the needs of industry, communities, and society.UIT and an innovation environment that begins in the classroomWith its strengths in education and research in Information and Communication Technology, UIT continues to promote scientific research, technology development, innovation, and digital transformation across emerging technology fields.From Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Information Security to semiconductor technologies, intelligent systems, and interdisciplinary research, education and research at UIT provide opportunities for faculty members, researchers, and students to engage with emerging technological challenges.Alongside the work of laboratories and research groups, stronger University – Industry connections give students further opportunities to engage with experts, technologies, and real-world problems. Knowledge developed in the classroom can therefore be tested, validated, and gradually transformed into practical applications.National Innovation Day 2026 is also an opportunity to further promote this spirit across the UIT community, encouraging every faculty member, researcher, and student to ask new questions, explore different approaches, and transform promising ideas into research, products, and solutions with practical value.Innovating to shape the futureInnovation does not always begin with a breakthrough idea. A new research approach, a technological solution to an industry challenge, a product developed by students, or a research outcome transferred into practice can all become part of the innovation process.National Innovation Day on October 1 is therefore not only an occasion to recognize achievements in science and technology, but also an opportunity to foster a culture that embraces experimentation, collaboration, and the creation of new value.At UIT, this spirit of innovation continues to be nurtured through classrooms, laboratories, research projects, and connections with industry and other partners. The value of innovation lies not only in generating a new idea, but also in the ability to turn knowledge and technology into positive change for communities and society.01.10 | INNOVATION DAY 2026“Innovation – A Driving Force for the Development of Society”