Professor Laurent El Ghaoui, VinUniversity Vice Provost of Research and Innovation, participated in discussions during the Distinguished Panel on Strengthening Semiconductor Investments and Ecosystem in Vietnam: A Focus on Policy Challenges and Opportunities, held from September 11-13 in Hanoi. The event was organized by the National Innovation Center (NIC) in collaboration with the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam, and Arizona State University (ASU), aimed at strengthening the global semiconductor supply chain.

The event brought together leaders from the Ministry of Planning and Investment, the Ministry of Information and Communications, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Education and Training, along with executives from Vietnamese Universities and representatives from international organizations and corporations such as Samsung, Intel, Amkor, Apple, Hana Micron, OnSemi, Qualcomm, Foxconn, Qorvo, ADB, WB, SIA, and BCG. The discussions focused on identifying Vietnam’s strengths and challenges in the semiconductor industry, as well as developing action plans to enhance the nation’s capabilities in this field.

The ITSI Fund, launched at the event, is an initiative under the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act designed to strengthen global semiconductor capabilities and ensure the resilience of the supply chain. It also aims to support technological advancements in the semiconductor sector, demonstrating a commitment to fostering sustainable development and prosperity through innovation. Vietnam is one of the eight strategic countries selected for this initiative.

As a keynote speaker, Professor Laurent El Ghaoui made significant contributions during the discussion, emphasizing the crucial role of technology and innovation, particularly through artificial intelligence (AI), in the development of semiconductor materials, microchip design, and various stages of testing, production, assembly, and advanced chip inspection. He also highlighted the importance of developing a highly skilled workforce and promoting appropriate public policies to attract investment and foster innovation in the semiconductor industry.

Through this event, the portal https://itsi-skillsaccelerator.org was launched, offering free courses for students interested in the semiconductor industry, as well as opportunities for faculty members to receive certifications in semiconductor technology.