On April 18, 2025, the Information Technology Institute – Vietnam National University, Hanoi in collaboration with the National Innovation Center (NIC), held the closing ceremony of the training course “VLSI Circuits Design” for 30 outstanding trainees. This was one of the key activities within the framework of a high-quality human resource development program dedicated to the semiconductor industry – a field receiving special attention from the Government in this era of national advancement. The Information Technology Institute, VNU, awarded 29 scholarships, each worth 30 million VND, to 30 participants.
A distinctive feature of this training course was the harmonious combination of in-depth theoretical knowledge and practical implementation of integrated circuit design projects. The program was jointly delivered by international and domestic experts with years of experience in industrial and applied research projects. Trainees were not only equipped with fundamental knowledge of integrated circuit design but also had hands-on experience with specialized software tools, gaining access to real-world chip design workflows using open-source PDKs such as Skywater (USA) and IHP (Germany).
Attending the closing ceremony were Prof. Tran Xuan Tu – Director of the Information Technology Institute; Prof. Koichiro Ishibashi from the University of Electro-Communications, Tokyo (Japan) – who is also an adjunct professor of the Information Technology Institute; and Dr. Bui Duy Hieu – lecturer and head of the AIoT Laboratory at the Information Technology Institute.
Evaluating the course, Prof. Tran Xuan Tu stated that the program not only helped trainees grasp modern technological advancements but also contributed to forming a core team capable of organizing and implementing training programs at their own workplaces to spread knowledge. The participants were equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical implementation skills. “We highly appreciate the practicality and openness of the course, especially as trainees became familiar with open-source PDK design processes and gained access to international organizations such as Skywater (USA), IHP (Germany), and activities supported by IEEE-CASS and IEEE-SSCS. This approach aligns well with global trends, enabling participants to easily join free integrated circuit prototyping projects, reduce costs, and promote knowledge sharing within Vietnam’s microelectronics engineering community,” he said.
In his speech at the ceremony, Mr. Do Tien Thinh – Deputy Director of NIC – shared, “As we know, integrated circuits are a crucial foundation in most modern electronic devices. From smartphones and medical equipment to smart cars and IoT systems, as well as artificial intelligence – all rely on these incredibly small chips.” He emphasized that developing and mastering microchip technology, especially designing high-density, low-power chips, is a strategic direction in the effort to enhance national technological autonomy. He affirmed that NIC will continue to support research groups, businesses, and training institutions in connecting the technology ecosystem, accessing open-source resources, and pursuing international opportunities.
With over 70 applications from research institutes, universities, and companies nationwide, the training course selected 30 of the most outstanding participants. The strong interest from the technology community demonstrates the urgent need for advanced training in microchip design in Vietnam.
This training course represents an important step forward in the roadmap to develop high-level human resources, contributing to affirming the pioneering role of Vietnam National University, Hanoi and NIC in the national technology ecosystem. It also proves the effective collaboration between training institutions, innovation centers, and international experts in bringing Vietnamese microchip technology closer to global standards.
Some photos from the ceremony
