Hoa Sen University: Celebrating 35 Years of Human Resource Development in Ho Chi Minh City’s Cultural Industry

On January 12, 2026, the Government News of Ho Chi Minh City published an article discussing the significant role of human resources in the development strategy for the city’s cultural industry, projected to extend through 2030. MA Doan Ngoc Duy, Vice President of Hoa Sen University (HSU), asserted that higher education is essential for developing a skilled workforce capable of bolstering the city’s creative and cultural sectors.
Development Plan for Ho Chi Minh City’s Cultural Industry
The “Development Plan for Ho Chi Minh City’s Cultural Industry until 2030” sets a goal for the cultural industry to account for over 7.2% of the city’s Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP). This initiative aims not only to promote economic growth but also to establish cultural creativity as a fundamental aspect of the city’s identity and its capacity for international influence.
The Evolving Role of the Cultural Industry
Vice President Duy noted that the cultural industry has evolved beyond traditional artistic endeavors and now functions as a crucial engine for economic, social, and sustainable development. With appropriate investment, it presents opportunities to enhance related fields such as tourism, advertising, fashion, and digital content, while also creating quality employment and improving citizens’ cultural engagement.
Human Resource Development for a Thriving Cultural Sector
Regarding human resource development, Duy emphasized that for the cultural industry to thrive as a primary economic sector, it is essential to cultivate a workforce equipped with creative thinking, professional skills, and competencies for international engagement. The urgency of enhancing human resources has been highlighted by Ho Chi Minh City’s classification as a regional megacity.
A Holistic Approach to Training Programs
Duy recommended adopting a long-term, holistic approach to human resource development within the cultural sector, indicating that training programs should include all stakeholders in the local cultural value chain, rather than focusing solely on the younger generation. Key skills identified include intercultural communication, technology integration, and a global outlook.
Educational Initiatives from Hoa Sen University
From an educational perspective, HSU aims to partner with the city by offering formal education and specialized training that caters to the demands of the creative economy, which encompasses areas such as content creation, film production, fashion design, digital art, and contemporary media.
Commitment to Innovation and Liberal Education
Reflecting on HSU’s dedication to liberal education and innovation, Duy affirmed that the university’s commitment to cultivating human resources in the cultural industry aligns with its strategic objectives developed over 35 years. The university strives to keep pace with societal needs by providing flexible, interdisciplinary training solutions that engage professionals in urban practice-related areas.
Conclusion: Lifelong Learning and Cultural Values
In conclusion, Duy highlighted that effective human resource development within the cultural industry necessitates a multi-generational framework grounded in lifelong learning. This ongoing commitment aims to preserve cultural values while ensuring their ongoing creation and dissemination, thereby supporting Ho Chi Minh City’s long-term vision for development.
*Source: Government News*



