The annual Vietnam Fund for Supporting Technological Creations (VIFOTEC) Awards were held in Hanoi on April 24. 

In total, 33 projects were honoured, with five claiming the top prize, five receiving the second prize, 12 taking the third prize and 11 getting a consolation award. 

The honoured initiatives specialise in scientific areas ranging from information technology, electronics and telecoms to bio-technology, eco-friendly technology and new energies. 

Meanwhile, on the same day the World Intellectual Property Organisation’s (WIPO) Awards were also held. 
The best project award was presented to the Ba Ria-Vung Tau Water Drainage and Urban Development Company for its study in applying new techniques in building underground infrastructure in urban areas in Vietnam. 
Five enterprises were also presented with Vietnam’s Intellectual Gold Cup for applying intellectual property protection to their products. 

Speaking at the awards ceremonies, President of the Vietnam Fatherland Font’s Central Committee Nguyen Thien Nhan congratulated the winners and said that scientists and their inventions will contribute to promoting the country’s development. 

Starting in 1994, the VIFOTEC awards have recognised nearly 2,000 projects, with 650 winners.