Science and technology, and knowledge transfer policies for human resource development in Vietnam’s high-speed railway sector

Abstract

This article investigates the policy framework for science, technology, and knowledge transfer in developing human resources for high-speed railway (HSR) in Vietnam. This policy cluster focuses on fostering system-level capabilities and absorptive capacity to master exogenous technology which refers to technology developed outside the domestic context. Drawing on the theory of absorptive capacity and the national innovation system (NIS) framework, the study proposes a five-policy set (STKT1-STKT5) including financial commitment to research and development (STKT1), promotion of innovation (STKT2), technology mastery and localisation (STKT3), scientific and technological research output and products (STKT4), and knowledge transfer (STKT5). The research findings emphasise that the success level of human resource development for the Vietnamese HSR sector depends on the transition from a passive operational model relying on imported technology to an active operational model driven by endogenous innovation based on national capabilities.