(VOVworld) – The Vietnam Post and Telecommunications Group (VNPT) and the Vietnam Study Promotion Association launched a program to encourage inventors called “Vietnam Talent Awards” on Wednesday in Ho Chi Minh city.

A press conference to launch the Vietnam Talent Awards 2013 (Photo: nhantaidatviet.vnmedia.vn)

The awards were initiated in 2005 and have attracted thousands of talented individuals nationwide working in information technology, science, healthcare, telecommunications, and business administration. The awards have brought scientific and technological products to national attention, contributing to Vietnam’s economic development. This year’s awards include a 4,800 USD first prize, a 2,400 USD second prize and a 1,400 USD third prize. The entry deadline is August 31, and the award ceremony will take place in Hanoi on November 20. Ly Kiet, Deputy Director of the VNPT group, said: "This is the 9^th Vietnam Talent Awards. The awards encouraged scientific and technological creation. This year’s awards will include applications for mobile devices which have contributed to national socio-economic development".