The 2026 International Conference on Control, Automation, and Digital Transformation (VCCA 2026) concluded with a strong emphasis on turning scientific research into practical solutions, bringing together researchers, businesses and educational institutions to accelerate technology transfer and innovation.
Held from July 16 to 18 at Quy Nhon University under the theme "Smart Automation - A Strategic Technology for the Digital Era", the conference reflected a broader shift in research priorities from academic inquiry toward addressing real-world challenges across industry and society.
Organizers selected 157 of 178 submitted scientific papers for presentation across 22 specialized subcommittees, an increase from VCCA 2024 in both submissions and accepted research.
More significant than the numbers, however, was the growing focus on application-driven research in robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, agricultural automation, smart factories and smart cities.
During plenary sessions, research teams presented projects involving intelligent robots, adaptive control systems, unmanned aerial vehicles and smart manufacturing technologies. The studies shared a common objective of solving practical problems in production and everyday life rather than remaining confined to academic research.
The conference also featured a business forum and the AT Expo technology exhibition, creating opportunities for researchers, businesses and experts to collaborate on refining technologies, responding to market demand and expanding partnerships. Discussions covered innovation, green transformation, the Make in Vietnam robotics and drone ecosystem, renewable energy, human resource development and cooperation in applied research.
According to Dr. Nguyễn Quân, President of the Vietnam Automation Association, the conference's defining strength was its ability to connect scientists, universities, businesses and local authorities, helping research outcomes move steadily toward practical implementation and contributing to socio-economic development.
He said the conference also reflected the spirit of Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW of the Politburo on advancing science and technology, innovation and national digital transformation.
Beyond serving as an academic forum, VCCA 2026 created opportunities for Gia Lai to engage with emerging technology trends, attract scientific and technological resources and strengthen its innovation ecosystem.
Under its current development strategy, the province has identified science and technology, innovation and digital transformation as key drivers of its growth model while promoting stronger collaboration among research institutes, universities, businesses and experts to advance technology transfer.
The business forum also enabled companies to present real-world challenges, opening opportunities for universities and research institutions to develop practical solutions through collaborative research.
Delegates highlighted the need to modernize technical and engineering education as demand for highly skilled workers continues to grow alongside the expansion of economic zones, technology parks and industrial complexes across Central Vietnam. Speakers emphasized interdisciplinary education, stronger links between research and practical application, and greater participation from businesses in workforce development.
The exhibition demonstrated this practical approach through student-led innovations. A team from Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology presented an IoT-based cleanroom air monitoring system and the STR423-BPSNY fire prevention misting system designed for bird's nest houses while seeking feedback from experts and industry representatives to improve the products for commercial use.
Trần Đăng Khoa, a student at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education, said discussions with businesses helped the team recognize that successful products must respond to market demand as well as meet technical requirements, while the conference also provided valuable opportunities to connect with experts and industry.
Associate Professor Dr. Đoàn Đức Tùng, Rector of Quy Nhon University, said hosting VCCA 2026 strengthened the university's cooperation with domestic and international universities, research institutes and businesses, while providing lecturers, researchers and students with greater access to emerging technologies and improving the quality of education and research aligned with practical needs.
By combining scientific presentations, industry dialogue and technology exhibitions, VCCA 2026 positioned itself as a platform connecting research with practical application, creating new opportunities for collaboration, technology transfer and innovation-driven socio-economic development.