To promote the development of the semiconductor industry, attracting investment and preparing infrastructure are essential, but human resources are also a key factor. Universities in Da Nang are collaborating with businesses to train and develop a skilled workforce for this industry.

Students at the Viet Nam - Korea University of Information and Communications Technology in a microchip class. Photo: THU HA

Intensive training

After graduating from the Automation major at the University of Science and Technology - the University of Da Nang, Ngo Tri Khiem is currently working as a physical design engineer at FPT Semiconductor Company. Khiem said that during his studies, he found that the knowledge he was trained in was quite broad, with subjects such as digital circuits and electronic circuits considered to be important foundations for the electronics field.

He transitioned to work in the microchip industry after participating in the "Basic VLSI Microchip Physical Design" course organised by the Viet Nam National Innovation Center (NIC) in collaboration with FPT Corporation, Tresemi organisation from Silicon Valley, and Cadence Corporation. The course ran from February to May 2024 and focused on the fundamentals of microchip physical design, basic CMOS technology, and the design process. It included practical sessions using Innovus (Cadence) tools on the Linux operating system. The instructors from Tresemi provided him with a strong knowledge foundation and a clear career orientation in the microchip industry.

To meet the training needs of human resources in the semiconductor industry, in 2024, the University of Science and Technology opened the major of Microelectronics - Microchip Design under the Electronics - Telecommunications Engineering with 60 quotas.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Hong Hai, Vice President of the University of Science and Technology, said that the school has designed a programme that meets domestic and international training standards. Students are taught core subjects such as electronic components, semiconductor devices, microprocessor engineering, digital and analog circuit design, VLSI technology, and advanced practical courses.

The university has established laboratories for both basic and advanced electronics, along with a microcircuit design practice room and a basic electronics lab. To enhance training quality, it has signed cooperation agreements with leading companies in the microcircuit field, providing students with opportunities for internships, practical experience, and research. Additionally, in partnership with the Viet Nam National Innovation Centre and seasoned experts in semiconductor microchips from the U.S, the university offers specialised training courses aimed at improving the professional qualifications of lecturers in microchip design.

The Viet Nam - Korea University of Information and Communications Technology (VKU) is the first school in the Central Highlands to offer training in semiconductor microchip design. In 2024, VKU enrolled its inaugural class, with 60 targets for semiconductor microchip design engineers. In 2025, the university plans to increase enrollment to 80 students in this major.

According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Huynh Cong Phap, Principal of VKU, the university always strives to promote and develop high-quality human resources to meet the growing needs of the semiconductor industry. It has cooperated with the Da Nang Semiconductor and Artificial Intelligence Centre for Research and Training (DSAC) and the Synopsys Vietnam Company to support copyrighted software to organize a training course for 25 lecturers selected from universities in the city (in 6 months).

At the same time, VKU has proactively provided a training course on semiconductor circuit design for 15 students who are students of VKU and universities citywide.

Moreover, VKU has opened a master's training programme; developed a research group on semiconductor circuits; built a plan to train human resources in packaging and testing semiconductor circuits; recruited and trained students in advanced skills classes; and developed and trained a team of lecturers. It has put into use the Semiconductor and Smart Technology Hub (VKU-SSTH), and strengthened cooperation with many domestic and foreign strategic partners.

Students of the University of Science and Technology register for scholarships from Mixel Vietnam Company. Photo: THU HA

“Nurturing” human resources in semiconductor industry

To support and motivate students pursuing careers in the semiconductor industry, Mixel Vietnam Company has recently launched the “Light Your Way” scholarship. This scholarship is available to students majoring in fields related to the semiconductor industry at the University of Science and Technology. Students can apply for the scholarship, and the company will conduct interviews and announce the results in May 2025.

Mr. Nguyen Bao Anh, Chairman and General Director of Mixel Vietnam Company, stated that this scholarship will provide students with the opportunity to engage with microchip technology challenges. Students will receive direct guidance from experienced industry experts and have the chance to intern at Mixel Vietnam, a member of Mixel Group, the USA, which is a leading global supplier of mixed-signal IP cores.

The company was established with the aim of introducing advanced technologies to Viet Nam, particularly in Da Nang. This initiative creates more opportunities for students to receive systematic training and hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies. Ultimately, it contributes to the development of a team of highly qualified Vietnamese experts, laying the groundwork for future high-end products from Viet Nam.

Similarly, Synopsys Vietnam Company has awarded the Synopsys IC Design Scholarships in 2025 to 6 outstanding students in the field of microchip design at the University of Science and Technology.

Mr. Nguyen The Linh, Technical Executive Director of Synopsys Corporate Headquarters, said that the company is always ready to accompany universities to nurture young talents with a passion for semiconductors. He noted that the scholarship aims to promote innovation, develop high-quality human resources, and make positive contributions to the semiconductor ecosystem in Viet Nam.

Reporting by THU HA - Translating by M.DUNG