That message is not only a call to action for all people, but also a clear direction for action for localities - including Phu Yen - on the journey to breakthrough in the digital age.

Looking back at the journey of digital transformation and innovation in Phu Yen over the past time, it can be seen that the first steps have been implemented. However, the speed of transformation is still slow and has not created a strong ripple effect throughout society.

According to the results of the 2024 Local Innovation Index ranking announced by the Ministry of Science and Technology earlier this year, Phu Yen only achieved 32.26 points, ranking 42nd out of 63 provinces and cities; down 1 place and 1.75 points compared to 2023. This ranking shows that the province is still in the average group and has not really taken advantage of its innovation potential.

In reality, many agencies and units still deploy information technology in an administrative and formal manner. A number of officials and civil servants are still hesitant about new things. The number of businesses investing in technological innovation is still very limited, while digital awareness and skills in the community have not kept up with development requirements.

Despite many challenges, Phu Yen is not standing on the sidelines. In February 2025, the Provincial Party Committee issued Resolution 47-NQ/TU on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation and digital transformation in the province, demonstrating strong political determination in making science, technology, innovation and digital transformation a new driving force for development.

Next, the province established a Steering Committee on Science, Technology, Innovation and Digital Transformation Development, headed by Comrade Cao Thi Hoa An, Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee and Chairwoman of the Provincial People's Council. This is the focal point for consistent direction, aiming to ensure consistency and effectiveness in implementing key programs.

At a recent meeting of the Steering Committee, the Provincial Party Secretary requested Party committees at all levels, Party organizations, departments, branches and localities to urgently develop specific action plans, ensuring feasibility, suitability with the reality and characteristics of each field; encourage the participation of the whole society, maximize the combined strength of the political system, businesses and people in the process of developing science, technology, innovation and digital transformation.

At the same time, the province is also promoting the deployment of online public services, popularizing digital skills for people, supporting farmers and small traders to bring products to e-commerce platforms, organizing start-up competitions, creative playgrounds for students and training on digital transformation for officials and civil servants. These positive signals show that the premise for the journey of digital transformation and innovation has begun to take shape.

However, for digital transformation and innovation to truly become a driving force for sustainable development, Phu Yen needs to further accelerate the construction of digital infrastructure, develop open data, improve the legal environment and especially develop digital human resources - the decisive factor for the success of every innovation and transformation strategy.

Digital transformation and innovation are not a movement, let alone a slogan. The message from the Prime Minister is a reminder that if we delay, we will be left behind. The province now has a unified Steering Committee, a specific strategy, initial technology infrastructure and especially clear political determination. What is needed now is for each official, each business, each citizen to change their mindset, approach technology, and apply innovation to their daily work.

Only when innovation and digital transformation become part of the thinking and working style of each organization and individual, can the province's aspiration for rapid and sustainable development become a reality in the digital age.