Vietnam's First AI Ethics Course with U.S. Support

Vietnam Takes a Bold Step into AI Ethics Education with U.S. Collaboration In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping every facet of our lives, from healthcare diagnostics to financial services and beyond, the question of ethics in AI is no longer academic — it’s urgent. On May 12, 2025, Vietnam marked a significant milestone by launching its very first AI ethics course, held in Hanoi, and backed by support from the U.S. Embassy. This initiative is more than just an academic exercise; it’s a proactive move to build a responsible AI ecosystem that respects Vietnam’s unique legal, social, and cultural context while aligning with global standards. **Why AI Ethics Matters Now More Than Ever** Let’s face it: AI is everywhere. It’s powering the apps on our phones, guiding autonomous vehicles, influencing hiring decisions, and even shaping public policy. But with these advances come serious risks — algorithmic bias, privacy infringements, data misuse, and unintended social consequences. Without a framework grounded in ethics, AI’s promise can quickly become a peril. Vietnam’s government recognizes this clearly. Back in January 2021, a landmark national strategy was announced (Decision No. 127/QD-TTg) outlining the country’s AI vision through 2030, emphasizing not just innovation but also capacity building in ethics, risk management, and policy development. The new course springs directly from this strategy, aiming to equip AI practitioners — from developers to managers — with the tools they need to build fair, transparent, and human-centered AI systems[2]. **The Course: Bridging Technology and Responsibility** The two-day course (May 12-13, 2025) was organized by the Blockchain Technology and Artificial Intelligence Institute (ABAII) in cooperation with the U.S. Embassy. This partnership reflects a growing global trend: tech diplomacy. The U.S. has been actively supporting AI ethics education worldwide, and Vietnam’s program is a prime example of how international collaboration can foster knowledge transfer and capacity building. Students immersed in this course are not only diving into the technical nitty-gritty — algorithms, data handling, and system design — but are also challenged to think critically about the societal impact of their work. As Elenita Tapawan, Director of U.S. Centers in Vietnam, aptly put it, “Students not only learn about algorithms, data, but also strengthen their ability to make transparent, fair, responsible, and human-centered decisions”[2]. **Contextualizing Ethics in Vietnam’s AI Landscape** Vietnam’s AI sector is booming. According to recent analyses, the country is positioning itself as a tech hub in Southeast Asia, attracting investments and talent alike. NVIDIA, for example, is expanding operations into Vietnam by the end of 2024, signaling confidence in the local market[5]. But growth without guardrails can be hazardous. That’s where Vietnam’s evolving regulatory framework comes into play. As of early 2025, the government has been drafting comprehensive digital technology legislation, including the nation’s first-ever personal data protection law, expected to be enacted by October 2025. This Draft Personal Data Protection (PDP) Law mandates transparency from organizations using AI and algorithms, ensuring individuals are informed about how their data is used and can opt out of research activities if they choose[5]. This legal groundwork complements the ethical education course, together fostering an environment where AI innovation is balanced with respect for privacy, fairness, and accountability. **A Global Perspective with a Local Flavor** Vietnam’s AI ethics course is not happening in isolation. Internationally, there’s a growing movement to certify and standardize ethical AI practices. For instance, IEEE’s CertifAIEd program offers certification for autonomous intelligent systems focused on ethical compliance[4]. Vietnam’s course aligns with these global efforts but tailors its content to fit local realities, including cultural norms and legal frameworks, which is crucial for meaningful impact. **Real-World Implications and What Lies Ahead** By equipping AI professionals with ethics training, Vietnam is setting the stage for several positive outcomes: - **Reduced Algorithmic Bias:** Understanding biases hidden in data and algorithms helps create fairer AI systems. - **Enhanced Privacy Protections:** Aligning with the upcoming PDP law means AI applications will better respect user data rights. - **Social Trust:** Transparent and accountable AI fosters public confidence, critical for widespread adoption. - **Regulatory Readiness:** Trained professionals can better navigate and influence evolving policies. Looking forward, this initiative could serve as a blueprint for other ASEAN countries grappling with similar challenges. It also signals to investors and tech companies that Vietnam is serious about sustainable and ethical AI innovation — a selling point as competition heats up in the region. **Voices from the Field** Le Linh Luong, Deputy Director of ABAII, highlighted the strategic importance of the course: “Building capacity in AI ethics is essential to ensure that AI technologies are developed and deployed responsibly, respecting our society’s values and legal requirements”[2]. Such leadership is vital as AI continues to evolve rapidly. **Conclusion: Vietnam’s Ethical AI Journey Has Begun** Vietnam’s launch of its first AI ethics course, supported by the U.S., is a timely and strategic move that reflects a mature understanding of AI’s double-edged sword. By embedding ethics into AI education and regulatory frameworks, Vietnam is not just catching up with global trends — it’s carving out its own path toward responsible AI innovation. As AI continues to permeate every corner of life, Vietnam’s approach serves as a compelling example of how emerging tech hubs can balance growth with responsibility. For AI enthusiasts, policymakers, and investors, this development underscores a broader truth: ethical AI is not just desirable; it’s indispensable. --- **