Challenges in Developing Human Resources to Meet the Demands of the Digital Economy: A Multi-Faceted Analysis from the Perspectives of HR Managers and Training Institutions in Vietnam

Do Thi Dinh - Tran Dinh Trinh

doi:10.56201/ijebm.vol.11.no12.2025.pg16.25

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Challenges in Developing Human Resources to Meet the Demands of the Digital Economy: A Multi-Faceted Analysis from the Perspectives of HR Managers and Training Institutions in Vietnam

Do Thi Dinh - Tran Dinh Trinh

Abstract

This study aims to deeply analyze the nature of the "digital skills gap" in Vietnam by juxtaposing the multi-faceted perspectives of the demand side (enterprises) and the supply side (training institutions). Using a qualitative research method with a multiple case study design, the study conducted 18 semi-structured in-depth interviews with senior human resources managers and training managers at leading enterprises and universities. The research findings reveal a systemic mismatch: while enterprises demand a workforce with work-ready skills, including both specialized hard skills (AI/ML, DevOps) and especially soft skills for the digital environment (critical thinking, self-learning, online collaboration), training institutions face inherent barriers such as slow curriculum update processes, limitations in financial and human resources, and collaborations with businesses that remain superficial. Therefore, the study posits that the skills gap is not the fault of any single party but a systemic failure. The study proposes significant practical implications, including the development of substantive collaborative models like "Work-Integrated Learning" (WIL), "Joint Innovation Labs," and the establishment of a national "Open Digital Skills Framework" to create a common language and direction for the entire system. The novelty of the research lies in its multi-faceted qualitative approach, creating a "dialogue" between labor supply and demand, thereby clarifying the root causes and systemic nature of the problem, rather than merely describing its symptoms.

Keywords

Digital skills gapHuman resource developmentDigital economyUniversity-industry collaboration.

References

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Challenges in Developing Human Resources to Meet the Demands of the Digital Economy: A Multi-Faceted Analysis from the Perspectives of HR Managers and Training Institutions in Vietnam

Abstract

Keywords

References

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