Circular No. 23/2021/TT-BNNPTNT Amending and supplementing some articles of Circular No. 18/2015/TT-BNNPTNT dated April 24, 2015, issued by the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development on the management of scientific and technological tasks of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

CIRCULAR
Amending and supplementing some Articles of Circular No. 18/2015/TT-BNNPTNT
dated April 24, 2015, issued by the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development
on managing scientific and technological tasks
of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

______________________

Pursuant to the Law on Science and Technology dated June 18, 2013;

Pursuant to Decree No. 15/2017/NĐ-CP dated February 17, 2017 of the Government stipulating the functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development;

Pursuant to Decree No. 08/2014/NĐ-CP dated January 27, 2014 of the Government detailing and guiding the implementation of certain provisions of the Law on Science and Technology;

At the proposal of the Director of the Department of Science, Technology and Environment,

The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development issues this Circular amending and supplementing some Articles of Circular No. 18/2015/TT-BNNPTNT dated April 24, 2015, issued by the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development on managing scientific and technological tasks of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Article 1. Amending and supplementing some Articles of Circular No. 18/2015/TT-BNNPTNT dated April 24, 2015, issued by the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development on managing scientific and technological tasks of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (hereinafter referred to as Circular No. 18/2015/TT-BNNPTNT).

1. Amend and supplement Article 1 as follows:

"Article 1. Scope of Regulation

This Circular stipulates on:

1. Management and organization of implementation of scientific and technological tasks (hereinafter referred to as scientific and technological tasks or KHCN) funded by the State budget of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (hereinafter referred to as the Ministry) include:

a) Ministry-level science and technology programs;

b) Ministry-level science and technology projects;

c) Ministry-level science and technology topics (hereinafter referred to as topics);

d) Ministry-level science topics (hereinafter referred to as science topics);

đ) Ministry-level experimental production projects (hereinafter referred to as experimental production projects);

e) Ministry-level potential science and technology topics (hereinafter referred to as potential topics);

g) Tasks under the program for conservation and sustainable utilization of genetic resources.

2. Proposing orders for national-level scientific and technological tasks related to agriculture and rural development sectors managed by other Ministries.

3. Activities of the Ministry's Science and Technology Council and specialized Science and Technology Committees.

2. Supplementing Article 1a as follows:

"Article 1a. Scope of Application

This Circular applies to organizations and individuals related to management and implementation of activities stipulated in Article 1 of this Circular.

3. Amending and supplementing Article 2 as follows:

"Article 2. Interpretation of Terms

In this Circular, the following terms are understood as follows:

1. A Ministry-level science and technology program is a scientific and technological task with a common goal to address scientific and technological issues serving the development and application of science and technology over five years or longer periods in the sector or field, implemented in the form of a collection of science and technology topics, experimental production projects, and science and technology projects.

2. A Ministry-level science and technology project is a scientific and technological task including several topics, experimental production projects that are organically connected, carried out within a specific period, aimed at addressing scientific and technological issues serving the production of one or a group of key products; having significant impacts on improving technological levels and greatly influencing the development of the sector or field managed by the Ministry.

3. A Ministry-level science topic is a scientific and technological task including one or a group of contents aimed at determining theoretical and practical foundations serving the establishment of mechanisms, policies, and laws in the sector or field managed by the Ministry.

4. Potential topics are science and technology topics with exploratory nature, creating initial materials or intermediate products, which, when successfully continued, have the potential to open up new research directions or create new technological products aligned with the priority direction of the sector or field managed by the Ministry.

5. Selection is the process of choosing organizations or individuals with appropriate conditions, capabilities, and experience to undertake scientific and technological tasks through reviewing and evaluating applications according to the provisions of this Circular.

6. Direct assignment is the designation of organizations or individuals with appropriate capabilities, conditions, and expertise to undertake scientific and technological tasks through reviewing and evaluating applications according to the provisions of this Circular.

7. Leading organization is the organization assigned to undertake scientific and technological tasks.

8. Code of Ministry-level scientific and technological tasks is a unique identifier for coding, tracking, and managing the database of science and technology of the Ministry according to Model 01. MSNV-BNN issued together with this Circular.

"Article 2a. Proposals for ordering national science and technology tasks managed by other ministries and sectors

1. Agencies, units, organizations under the Ministry, and individuals submit written proposals for national science and technology tasks managed by other ministries and sectors related to the industry or field under the management of the Ministry, along with the proposal form issued pursuant to Circular No. 03/2017/TT-BKHCN dated April 3, 2017, amending and supplementing certain provisions of Circular No. 07/2014/TT-BKHCN dated May 26, 2014, of the Minister of Science and Technology on the procedures and formalities for determining national science and technology tasks funded by the state budget (hereinafter referred to as Circular No. 03/2017/TT-BKHCN), to the Ministry (through the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment).

2. The Department of Science, Technology, and Environment compiles, solicits written opinions from relevant agencies, organizations, and independent experts (if necessary) regarding the necessity of the proposals, and submits them for consideration by the Ministry's leadership responsible for science and technology, then forwards the proposals for ordering tasks to the relevant ministries and sectors.

Article 2b. Management of science and technology tasks under national science and technology programs assigned to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

Science and technology tasks under national science and technology programs and projects; science and technology tasks approved by the Prime Minister and assigned to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development shall be implemented as follows:

1. Procedures and formalities for determining national science and technology tasks shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of Circular No. 07/2014/TT-BKHCN dated May 26, 2014, of the Minister of Science and Technology on the procedures and formalities for determining national science and technology tasks funded by the state budget (hereinafter referred to as Circular No. 07/2014/TT-BKHCN) and Circular No. 03/2017/TT-BKHCN.

2. Selection and direct assignment of science and technology tasks shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of Circular No. 08/2017/TT-BKHCN dated June 26, 2017, of the Minister of Science and Technology on the selection and direct assignment of organizations and individuals to implement national science and technology tasks funded by the state budget (hereinafter referred to as Circular No. 08/2017/TT-BKHCN).

3. Research contracts and termination agreements shall be made in accordance with the model forms prescribed in Circular No. 05/2014/TT-BKHCN dated April 10, 2014, of the Minister of Science and Technology promulgating "Model research contracts and development technology contracts" (hereinafter referred to as Circular No. 05/2014/TT-BKHCN).

4. Inspection, evaluation, adjustment, and termination of contracts during the implementation of national science and technology tasks shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of Circular No. 04/2015/TT-BKHCN dated March 11, 2015, of the Minister of Science and Technology on inspection, evaluation, adjustment, and termination of contracts during the implementation of national science and technology tasks funded by the state budget (hereinafter referred to as Circular No. 04/2015/TT-BKHCN).

5. Evaluation and acceptance of results of national science and technology tasks shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of Circular No. 11/2014/TT-BKHCN dated May 30, 2014, of the Minister of Science and Technology on the evaluation and acceptance of results of national science and technology tasks funded by the state budget (hereinafter referred to as Circular No. 11/2014/TT-BKHCN).

6. Other relevant regulations shall be guided and issued by the Ministry of Science and Technology.

Article 2c. Principles for the construction and approval of Ministry-level Science and Technology Programs and Ministry-level Science and Technology Projects

1. For Ministry-level Science and Technology Programs implemented according to Circular No. 05/2015/TT-BKHCN dated March 12, 2015 issued by the Minister of Science and Technology on the organization and management of national-level science and technology programs (hereinafter referred to as Circular No. 05/2015/TT-BKHCN).

2. For Ministry-level Science and Technology Projects implemented according to Circular No. 18/2016/TT-BKHCN dated September 1, 2016 issued by the Minister of Science and Technology guiding the management of national-level Science and Technology Projects.

3. Research topics and projects under Ministry-level Science and Technology Programs and Ministry-level Science and Technology Projects shall be managed as Ministry-level Science and Technology tasks.

Article 2d. Ministry Science and Technology Council and Sectoral Science and Technology Boards

1. The Minister decides to establish the Ministry Science and Technology Council and Sectoral Science and Technology Boards.

2. The members of the Ministry Science and Technology Council include: The Chairman of the Council is a Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development; the Vice-Chairman and Secretary-General of the Council is the Director of the Department of Science, Technology and Environment; Members are Heads of General Departments, Bureaus, Departments, Institutes, Academies, Universities under the Ministry, and scientists.

3. The members of the Sectoral Science and Technology Board include: The Head and Deputy Head of the Board are representatives of Leaders of General Departments, Bureaus, Departments under the Ministry or scientists; Members are scientists, managers, experts, and reputable business representatives with appropriate professional qualifications.

4. The number of members of the Ministry Science and Technology Council and Sectoral Science and Technology Boards is decided by the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development.

5. Every three years or at any time, the Department of Science, Technology and Environment reviews and submits to the Minister for issuance of a Decision to reorganize the members of the Ministry Science and Technology Council and Sectoral Science and Technology Boards.

Article 2đ. Criteria for Members Participating in the Ministry Science and Technology Council and Sectoral Science and Technology Boards

Members of the Ministry Science and Technology Council and Sectoral Science and Technology Boards must meet the following criteria:

1. Hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent (for representatives of management agencies under the Ministry and businesses); hold a doctoral degree in the relevant field (for scientists from scientific and technological organizations and independent experts).

2. Have achieved at least one of the following scientific achievements:

a) Lead at least one national-level, Ministry-level, or provincial-level Science and Technology task evaluated and accepted at the Achieved level or higher;

b) Supervise at least one doctoral candidate who successfully defends their dissertation;

c) Lead or participate in drafting at least two regulatory documents promulgated by competent authorities.

3. Have at least five years of work experience related to agriculture and rural development.

4. In special cases, the decision is made by the Minister.

Article 2e. Activities and Tasks of the Ministry Science and Technology Council

1. Organize meetings annually or at any time to advise the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development on the following tasks:

a) Evaluate the current situation, develop guidelines, and identify priority issues in annual research and application of science and technology;

b) Develop policies and strategies of the Party and State related to science and technology in agriculture and rural development;

c) Develop strategies, programs, plans, and long-term and medium-term Science and Technology tasks regarding the development of science and technology, international cooperation in science and technology in the sector;

d) Propose and recommend issues within the Ministry's jurisdiction; national-level, Ministry-level programs and other tasks of the Ministry; mechanisms, policies, and measures to encourage scientific activities of units under the Ministry and the agricultural and rural development sector;

đ) Propose and recommend issues within the Ministry's jurisdiction; national-level, Ministry-level programs and other tasks of the Ministry; mechanisms, policies, and measures to encourage scientific activities of units under the Ministry and the agricultural and rural development sector;

e) Participate in evaluating and accepting scientific and technological works, projects, and tasks of the Ministry; final reports on the Ministry's scientific work; textbooks and teaching programs of training institutions in agriculture and rural development (if applicable);

g) Participate in discussions and opinions at seminars and conferences evaluating scientific research and technology transfer in the agricultural sector organized by the Ministry.

2. Carry out other advisory activities as required by the Minister.

Article 2g. Duties of the Specialized Science and Technology Board

1. Participate in implementing activities and tasks specified in Clause 1 of Article 2e of this Circular according to the specialized field.

2. Participate in Advisory Councils to assist the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development on:

a) Establishing the annual and urgent scientific and technological task order list;

b) Selecting and directly assigning organizations and individuals to undertake scientific and technological tasks;

c) Evaluating and accepting scientific and technological tasks;

d) Issues related to recognizing technical progress, technical improvement initiatives, and the application of technical progress within the industry's scope.

3. Review applications for Ho Chi Minh Award, State Award, and other science and technology awards within the industry's scope.

4. Perform other tasks as required by the Minister.

Article 2h. Rights and Responsibilities of Members of the Ministry’s Science and Technology Council and Members of the Specialized Science and Technology Board

1. Members of the Ministry’s Science and Technology Council and Members of the Specialized Science and Technology Board have the following rights and authorities:

a) To be provided with necessary documents and information for performing their duties as members of the Council;

b) To be invited to attend science and technology seminars, conferences, and discussions;

c) To provide opinions on science and technology issues within the advisory function of the science and technology council;

d) To receive remuneration as stipulated by law;

đ) To propose initiatives and scientific and technological tasks in accordance with regulations;

e) To enjoy other benefits as currently prescribed.

2. Members of the Ministry’s Science and Technology Council and Members of the Specialized Science and Technology Board have the following responsibilities:

a) To fully participate in sessions of the Council and the Specialized Science and Technology Board; Members of the Ministry’s Science and Technology Council and the Specialized Science and Technology Board shall not continue to participate if they are absent from three consecutive sessions of the Council and the Specialized Science and Technology Board without valid reasons;

b) To conscientiously and objectively perform the scientific advisory tasks assigned by the Council;

c) To bear responsibility under the law and before the Minister for their advisory opinions and recommendations.

Article 2i. Rights and Responsibilities of the Chairman, Vice-Chairman of the Ministry’s Science and Technology Council; Director, Deputy Director of the Specialized Science and Technology Board

1. Rights and responsibilities of the Chairman of the Council, Director of the Specialized Science and Technology Board:

a) To implement the provisions of Article 2h of this Circular;

b) To direct the preparation of content and programs for Council and Specialized Science and Technology Board sessions;

c) To convene, chair, and conclude Council and Specialized Science and Technology Board sessions.

2. Rights and responsibilities of the Vice-Chairman of the Council, Deputy Director of the Specialized Science and Technology Board:

a) To implement the provisions of Article 2h of this Circular;

b) To assist the Chairman of the Council, Director of the Specialized Science and Technology Board in directing and overseeing regular activities of the Science and Technology Council and the Specialized Science and Technology Board according to the Chairman's and Director's assignment;

c) To be responsible for tasks assigned by the Chairman and Director, representing the Chairman and Director when authorized by them.

Article 2k. Responsibilities of the Secretary-General of the Ministry’s Science and Technology Council

1. To implement the provisions of Article 2h of this Circular.

2. To assist the Chairman of the Council in directing and overseeing regular activities of the Council.

3. To assist the Chairman of the Council in preparing agendas, contents, documents, and working conditions for sessions, and emergency tasks related to Council activities.

4. To record minutes of the Ministry’s Science and Technology Council sessions.

5. To compile opinions at the Ministry’s Science and Technology Council sessions.

5. Amend and supplement the name of Chapter II and Section 1 of Chapter II as follows:

"Chapter II"

MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION OF IMPLEMENTATION

SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL TASKS

Section 1
PROPOSAL AND ESTABLISHMENT OF ORDER LIST
SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL TASKS"

6. Amend and supplement Article 4 as follows:

"Article 4. Proposing to commission scientific and technological tasks

1. Basis for proposing scientific and technological tasks:

a) Requirements from Party leadership, State, Government, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development;

b) Strategies and programs for developing the agricultural sector and rural areas;

c) National and sectoral strategies and programs for developing science and technology;

d) Practical needs of production and economic and social development in the sector;

đ) Priorities for research and technology transfer as directed by the Science and Technology Council of the Ministry.

2. Annually or on an ad hoc basis, the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment, acting on behalf of the Minister, sends written notifications to relevant agencies, organizations, and individuals, and publishes them on the Ministry's electronic portal regarding proposals to commission scientific and technological tasks based on the provisions set out in Clause 1 of this Article.

3. Agencies, organizations, and individuals base their proposals to commission scientific and technological tasks on the Ministry’s notification and the provisions of Clause 1 of this Article, using Model B1a. PDX-BNN and Model B1b.DMDTDA-BNN issued together with this Circular and submit them to the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment of the Ministry.

"Article 4a. Determining the priority list of scientific and technological tasks to be implemented

1. Within ten working days, the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment reviews and compiles proposals to commission scientific and technological tasks from agencies, organizations, and individuals; solicits opinions from the General Departments and Bureaus on the list of tasks. Within five working days from receiving the document, the General Departments and Bureaus review and propose priority scientific and technological tasks to implement, sending them to the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment for compilation and reporting to the Ministry’s leadership responsible for science and technology.

2. The Ministry’s leadership responsible for science and technology chairs meetings to determine the priority list of scientific and technological tasks to be implemented. Participants in the meeting include: the specialized Science and Technology Board, representatives from the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment, General Departments, Bureaus, related units, and some relevant experts (if necessary).

8. Amend and supplement Article 5 as follows:

"Article 5. Building and Approving the List of Commissioned Scientific and Technological Tasks

1. Based on the priority list of scientific and technological tasks to be implemented, the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment submits to the Ministry for decision to establish a Council to build the list of commissioned scientific and technological tasks according to the provisions of Clauses 2, 3, 4, and 5 of this Article.

2. Composition of the Council:

a) The Council consists of seven members: Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, two members as independent reviewers, a scientific secretary member, and other members;

The Council has an administrative secretary responsible for preparing and sending documents to all Council members;

b) Members of the Council include: representatives from the specialized Science and Technology Board; representatives from General Departments and Bureaus managing the sector; experts;

c) For complex or special requirement scientific and technological tasks, the Minister decides the number of members and composition of the Council different from the provisions at point a and point b of this clause.

3. Principles and procedures for the Council's work:

a) Council meetings are held in person or online;

b) The Council only works when at least two-thirds of its members, as stipulated in the establishment decision, participate, including the Chairperson or Vice-Chairperson (in case of absence of the Chairperson) and the scientific secretary;

c) The Chairperson of the Council presides over Council meetings. In the absence of the Chairperson, the Vice-Chairperson of the Council presides over the meeting. Independent reviewers and Council members present their comments on each scientific and technological task according to Model B2.PNXDH-BNN issued together with this Circular. Written opinions of absent members are only for reference;

d) The Council discusses and agrees on the name, objectives, requirements for results, time frame, implementation methods, and priority order of tasks in the list;

đ) The scientific secretary records the comments of members and the Council's conclusions in the minutes of work according to Model B3.BBHDXDDM-BNN issued together with this Circular. The Council approves the minutes.

4. Within twenty days, based on the Council's work results, the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment compiles and submits to the Ministry for approval the list of commissioned scientific and technological tasks at the Ministry level. If necessary, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development seeks additional advice from independent experts.

5. Urgent scientific and technological tasks commissioned by Party leadership, State, Government, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development are prioritized regardless of the annual scientific and technological plan. The construction and approval of urgent scientific and technological tasks follow the provisions of this Article."

9. Amend and supplement the name of Section 2 Chapter II as follows:

"Section 2

SELECTION AND DIRECT ASSIGNMENT OF ORGANIZATIONS AND INDIVIDUALS TO IMPLEMENT SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL TASKS"

10. Amend and supplement Article 6 as follows:

"Article 6. Announcement for Selection and Direct Assignment of Scientific and Technological Tasks

1. For scientific and technological tasks implemented through selection: The Ministry (Department of Science, Technology and Environment) shall publicly announce on the Ministry's electronic portal for organizations and individuals to register to participate as the main implementer of the task.

2. For scientific and technological tasks implemented through direct assignment: The Ministry (Department of Science, Technology and Environment) shall publicly announce on the Ministry's electronic portal and notify in writing to the organizations assigned to implement the task.

3. Timeframe for announcement and notification: within five working days from the date the list of commissioned scientific and technological tasks is approved.

11. Amend and supplement Article 7 as follows:

"Article 7. Conditions for Participation in Selection and Direct Assignment to Implement Scientific and Technological Tasks

1. Conditions for organizational participation:

a) Possess functions suitable to the specialized field of the scientific and technological task;

b) At the time of submitting the application to participate in selection or direct assignment, not be in any of the following situations: have not fully refunded the recovered funds according to the contract for implementing the previous scientific and technological task; submit the application for evaluation and acceptance of the scientific and technological task at the central or national level later than ninety days after the end of the research contract without approval from the Ministry of Science and Technology (for national-level tasks) or the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (for central-level tasks); have not completed registration, submission, and retention of results of the implementation of the scientific and technological task using state budget funds; have been granted rights to use assets formed through the implementation of the scientific and technological task but did not directly or participate in applying the research results into production; within one year from the date of the conclusion of the competent authority due to subjective reasons leading to suspension of the task or evaluation and acceptance at the level of "unsatisfactory"; other cases prohibited by law from submitting applications to participate in selection or direct assignment to implement scientific and technological tasks.

2. Conditions for individual participation as the main implementer of scientific and technological tasks:

a) Hold a bachelor's degree or higher, with relevant expertise and actively engaged in the related field for at least five years up to the date of application submission;

b) Be a key participant in the implementation of the scientific and technological task;

c) Have the ability to directly implement or organize the implementation and ensure sufficient time to lead the scientific and technological task;

d) As of the deadline for application submission, not be leading more than one central-level scientific and technological task or one national-level task;

đ) At the time of submitting the application to participate in selection or direct assignment, not be in any of the following situations:

The leader of the task has not submitted the application for evaluation and acceptance within ninety days from the completion date of the national or central-level task according to the contract, including any extension period (if applicable); have not completed registration, submission, and retention of results of the implementation of the scientific and technological task as required;

Within two years from the date of the conclusion of the National or Central Evaluation and Acceptance Committee for the leader evaluated at the level of "unsatisfactory" due to subjective reasons;

Within three years from the date of the decision to suspend the task by the competent authority due to violations leading to suspension of the national or central-level scientific and technological task by the individual as the leader;

Other cases prohibited by law from leading scientific and technological tasks.

12. Amend and supplement Article 8 as follows

"Article 8. Documents for registration to participate in selection and direct assignment to implement scientific and technological tasks

1. The documents for registration to participate in selection and direct assignment to implement scientific and technological tasks include:

a) Application form for participation in selection and direct assignment to implement scientific and technological tasks according to Model B4.DON-BNN issued together with this Circular;

b) Detailed description of the research topic, project proposal, potential research topic according to Model B5a.TMDCN-BNN; production trial project according to Model B5b.TMDA-BNN; for research topics, project proposals, potential research topics in the field of economic policy according to Model B5c.TMDKTCS-BNN issued together with this Circular;

c) Summary of scientific and technological activities of the organization applying to implement scientific and technological tasks according to Model B6.LLTC-BNN issued together with this Circular;

d) Scientific curriculum vitae of the individual registering as the main leader of the scientific and technological task and other participating individuals, confirmed by the relevant authority according to Model B7.LLCN-BNN issued together with this Circular;

đ) Scientific curriculum vitae of foreign experts (in case of hiring foreign experts) according to Model B7.LLCN-BNN issued together with this Circular;

e) Confirmation document for cooperation in implementing scientific and technological tasks according to Model B8.PHTH-BNN issued together with this Circular (if applicable);

g) Documentation proving the ability to mobilize funds from other sources (in case of mobilizing funds from other sources);

h) For production trial projects: supplement legal commitment documents and explanations on the ability to mobilize funds from non-state budget sources in accordance with Joint Circular No. 22/2011/TTLT-BTC-BKHCN dated February 21, 2011 of the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Science and Technology guiding financial management for production trial projects supported by state budget funds, including: financial reports of the enterprise for the two most recent years; commitments for loan provision or loan guarantee by credit organizations; legal commitments and confirmation documents regarding capital contribution by the leading organization and participating organizations;

i) The application documents should be presented on A4 paper size, using Vietnamese font of Unicode character set according to Vietnam Standard TCVN 6909:2001, font size 14, packaged in sealed envelopes with the outside clearly marked: Name of the scientific and technological task; Name, address of the main registering agency; Full name of the principal investigator; Full name and workplace of participants; List of documents and electronic copies of the application;

2. Application Forms:

b) Application documents submitted directly or sent through postal service shall consist of one original set as stipulated in point a of this clause, bearing seals and signatures;

c) Application documents submitted online shall consist of one original set as stipulated in point a of this clause, bearing seals and signatures, and documents in PDF format and digitized;

3. Submission of documents:

a) Application documents for participation in selection and direct assignment can be submitted directly, sent via postal service, or submitted online to the Ministry (through the Department of Science, Technology and Environment). The deadline and submission address will be announced by the Ministry on mass media (in case of selection) and in writing (in case of direct assignment);

b) The date of receipt of documents is the date stamped by the postal service (in case of postal submission) or the arrival stamp of the Department of Science, Technology and Environment's office (in case of direct submission); or the arrival date of the document on the online platform;

c) Within the specified submission period, organizations and individuals applying to participate in selection and direct assignment have the right to withdraw their submitted documents to replace them with new ones or supplement the submitted documents. Replacement of documents or supplementation must be established in writing and completed before the submission deadline; the supplementary document is part of the application package.

13. Amend and supplement Article 9 as follows:

13. Amend and supplement Article 9 as follows:

"Article 9. Opening and verifying the validity of application files for selection and direct assignment to perform scientific and technological tasks

1. Within ten working days from the deadline for submitting registration applications for selection and direct assignment, the Department of Science, Technology and Environment shall open, verify, and confirm the validity of the application files with the presence of representatives of organizations and individuals who have registered to participate in the selection and direct assignment (if necessary).

2. Valid application files are those that comply with the provisions set forth in Article 7 and Clause 1 of Article 8 of this Circular.

3. The results of opening the application files shall be recorded in a protocol according to Model B9. BBMHS-BNN issued together with this Circular".

14. Amend and supplement Article 10 as follows:

"Article 10. Advisory Board for Selection and Direct Assignment to Perform Scientific and Technological Tasks

1. The Department of Science, Technology and Environment shall take the lead and coordinate with relevant units to submit to the Ministry for the establishment of an Advisory Board for Selection and Direct Assignment to Perform Scientific and Technological Tasks

a) For research topics, projects, and programs on science and technology transfer: the composition of the Board is as stipulated in Clause 2 of Article 5 of this Circular;

b) For potential research topics: the Board consists of five members including: Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, one member as a reviewer, one member as a scientific secretary, and another member. The composition of the Board is as stipulated in point b of Clause 2 of Article 5 of this Circular;

c) The Board has an administrative secretary responsible for preparing and sending documents to all members of the Board;

d) For complex scientific and technological tasks or those with special requirements, the Minister decides the number of members and the composition of the Board different from the provisions in points a and b of this clause.

2. Principles of operation of the Council:

a) Council meetings are held in person or online;

b) For research topics, projects, and programs on science and technology transfer: the Board shall only operate when at least two-thirds of the members of the Board as specified in the Decision on Establishment are present, including the Chairperson or Vice-Chairperson (in case the Chairperson is absent), two reviewers, and one scientific secretary. Written opinions of absent members are only for reference;

c) For potential research topics: the Board shall only operate when at least four-fifths of the members of the Board as specified in the Decision on Establishment are present, including the Chairperson or Vice-Chairperson (in case the Chairperson is absent) and one reviewer. Written opinions of absent members are only for reference;

d) The Board operates under the principle of democratic centralism; each member evaluates independently through secret ballot; conclusions of the Board are adopted when two-thirds of the participating members of the Board as specified in the Decision agree (for the evaluation and acceptance Board) or based on scores (for the selection Board);

đ) The scientific secretary records the comments of each member and the conclusion of the Board in the minutes of the meeting.

3. Responsibilities of Board Members:

a) Study and analyze each content and information declared in the application file; comment and evaluate each application file according to the prescribed requirements; write comments, evaluations, and explanations for the evaluation;

b) Evaluate truthfully, objectively, and fairly; bear individual responsibility for the results of their evaluation and collective responsibility for the Board's final conclusion. Board members, invited guests, and administrative secretaries have the responsibility to keep confidential information related to the evaluation process.

4. Individuals in the following cases are not allowed to be members of the Board:

a) Individuals who have registered as principal investigators and members participating in performing scientific and technological tasks;

b) Individuals belonging to organizations that have registered as principal organizers of scientific and technological tasks;

c) Persons currently being administratively punished for violations in scientific and technological activities or currently being pursued for criminal responsibility or have been convicted but not yet pardoned; spouses, parents, children, brothers, sisters, or half-siblings of the principal investigator; persons with evidence of conflicting interests with the principal investigator or the principal organizing organization of the scientific and technological task".

15. Amend and supplement Article 12 as follows:

"Article 12. Procedure and Content of Work of the Advisory Council for Selection and Direct Assignment

1. The Council shall elect the ballot counting board:

a) For research topics, projects, and programs: consisting of three members of the Council, including the Chair of the ballot counting board and two members;

b) For potential research topics: consisting of two members of the Council, including the Chair of the ballot counting board and one member.

2. Reviewers and Council members present their written comments on each application for research topics and potential research topics according to Form B10a. PNXDTCCN-BNN; for economic policy projects and topics according to Form B10b. PNXDTKTKCS-BNN; for agricultural science and technology projects according to Form B10c. PNXDAP-BNN issued together with this Circular.

3. The scientific secretary reads out the written opinions of absent members (if any) for the Council's reference.

4. The Council discusses and evaluates the suitability of the content, methods, time frame, and number of personnel by job titles and working days; assesses the appropriateness between the total budget and products of the task; evaluates the feasibility to achieve the products based on the assigned task; identifies contents in the description that need to be removed, modified, or supplemented; compares applications for the same task.

5. Members of the Council score according to Form B11a. PDGDTCN-BNN (for research topics and potential research topics), Form B11b.PDGDTKTKCS-BNN (for economic and policy projects and topics), Form B11c.PDGDA-BNN (for agricultural science and technology projects) issued together with this Circular.

6. The ballot counting board compiles and reports the Council on the ballot counting results according to Form B12a.BBKPDGHHS-BNN issued together with this Circular. In cases where there are two or more applications, the ballot counting board compiles separately for each application according to Form B12a.BBKPDGHHS-BNN and compiles and counts ballots according to Form B12b.BTHKP-BNN issued together with this Circular. A valid scoring ballot is one where the score does not differ by more than 20% from the average score of the Council members.

7. The Council recommends organizations and individuals who have been selected or directly assigned to implement the scientific and technological task when they meet the following conditions simultaneously:

a) Having an application ranked with the highest average score across all criteria and must reach at least 70/100 points, with no criterion having more than one-third of the attending Council members giving a zero score (0 points);

b) For applications with equal average scores, preference is given to those with higher commitments and non-budgetary counterpart funds. For applications with equal non-budgetary counterpart funds or without non-budgetary counterpart funds, preference is given to those with a higher average score regarding the capacity of the leading organization and the principal investigator;

c) Receiving approval from at least two-thirds of the participating Council members (including at least one reviewer) that the total budget is appropriate for the products of the task.

8. The Council concludes on the application of the recommended winning organization or direct assignment: points needing removal, modification, or supplementation in the task description, key scientific and technological products with corresponding economic-technical indicators to be achieved; the appropriateness between the total budget and the products of the task; the number of domestic and foreign experts needed to participate; the method of cost allocation to the final product or partial cost allocation.

9. The Council unanimously approves the minutes of work according to Form B13.BBHDGHHS-BNN issued together with this Circular".

16. Amend and supplement Article 13 as follows:

"Article 13. Notification to Organizations and Individuals Selected to Complete the Application for Selection and Direct Assignment of Scientific and Technological Tasks

Within fifteen working days from the date of receiving the Minister's approval opinion on the Advisory Council's results, the Science, Technology, and Environment Department shall notify in writing to the leading organizations and individuals to complete the application description and budget estimate for submission to the Ministry for content and financial review".

"Article 14. Review of Content and Budget

1. The Department of Science, Technology and Environment shall submit to the Ministry for the establishment of a review team for the content and budget of scientific and technological tasks (hereinafter referred to as the Review Team):

a) For research topics, projects, and experimental production projects related to the management fields of the specialized management agency: The Review Team shall consist of five members including representatives from the Department of Science, Technology and Environment, the Financial Department, and the specialized management agency (who have participated in the advisory council for selection and direct assignment). The head of the Review Team shall be a representative of the leadership of the Department of Science, Technology and Environment, and the deputy head of the Review Team shall be a representative of the leadership of the Financial Department;

b) For research topics, projects, and experimental production projects related to the management fields of the General Administration: The Review Team shall consist of seven members including representatives from the Department of Science, Technology and Environment, the Financial Department, the General Administration, and the advisory council for selection and direct assignment. The head of the Review Team shall be a representative of the leadership of the Department of Science, Technology and Environment, and the deputy head of the Review Team shall be a representative of the leadership of the Financial Department;

c) For potential research topics: The Review Team shall consist of four members including leaders and staff from the Departments of Finance, Science, Technology and Environment. The head of the Review Team shall be a leader of the Department of Science, Technology and Environment, and the deputy head of the Review Team shall be a representative of the leadership of the Financial Department.

2. Review contents:

a) Review the appropriateness of the research contents with the conclusions of the advisory council for selection and direct assignment, the budget estimates of the scientific and technological tasks with the prescribed regulations, economic and technical norms, current state spending standards issued by competent authorities to determine: costs for the members implementing the task; fees for hiring domestic and foreign experts; support funds for purchasing raw materials, equipment, and other expenses, as well as the necessary time to implement the task;

b) Conduct general discussions to propose recommendations on the content and total budget for implementation (including support funds from the state budget and other sources), the implementation period, and the method of cost allocation to the final product or partial cost allocation. In cases where necessary, organize inspections and verifications of the corresponding budget portion (outside the state budget) of the organization applying for selection and direct assignment.

3. Procedures for the Review Team's work:

a) The administrative secretary reads the decision establishing the Review Team, introduces the composition of the Review Team and the attending delegates, and reads the main conclusions of the advisory council for selection and direct assignment at the meeting to evaluate the application;

b) The head of the Review Team outlines the requirements and main content regarding the review of the budget for scientific and technological tasks;

c) The individual designated by the organization applying for selection and direct assignment to serve as the head of the scientific and technological task presents the supplemented and revised contents according to the conclusions of the advisory council for selection and direct assignment; answers questions from Review Team members (if any) and does not continue to participate in the Review Team meeting;

d) Before the Review Team makes its concluding opinion, the head of the scientific and technological task may be invited to rejoin the Review Team meeting to hear the proposed conclusion of the Review Team. The head of the scientific and technological task has the right to present explanations and clarifications before the Review Team concludes;

e) The Review Team approves the minutes of the content and budget review meeting for research topics, projects, and potential research topics according to Model B14a. BBTĐĐT-BNN, and experimental production projects according to Model B14b. BBTĐDA-BNN promulgated together with this Circular.

18. Supplement Article 14a as follows:

"Article 14a. Approval of Content and Budget for Implementing Scientific and Technological Tasks

1. Within fifteen working days from the date of completing the review of content and budget, the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment shall submit to the Ministry:

a) The decision approving the content and budget for implementing scientific and technological tasks (including: name of the task; leading organization and principal individual; objectives; requirements for results; implementation period; total budget and annual budget);

b) The decision assigning certain research topics, projects, and programs to relevant General Departments for management.

2. The dossier serving as the basis for submission to the Ministry for approval includes:

a) The registration dossier for participating in the selection and direct assignment to implement tasks as stipulated in Clause 1, Article 8 of this Circular;

b) The detailed description of the scientific and technological task completed by the leading organization and principal individual according to the conclusion of the Review Team;

c) Minutes of the registration dossier opening meeting for selecting and directly assigning the leading organization and principal individual of the task; Decision on establishing the Board and Review Team; Evaluation forms of Board members; Evaluation forms of Review Team members; Minutes of the Board meeting; Minutes of the Review Team meeting".

19. Amend and supplement Article 15 as follows:

"Article 15. Approval of Detailed Descriptions and Signing of Contracts for Implementing Scientific and Technological Tasks

1. Within ten days from the date of the approval decision, the leading organization and individual responsible for the scientific and technological task must complete the detailed description and send it to the Ministry (through the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment).

2. For research topics, projects, and programs under the Ministry's management:

a) Within twenty days from the date of receiving the detailed description from the leading organization, the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment and the Finance Department shall approve the detailed descriptions of research topics, projects, and programs;

b) The Department of Science, Technology, and Environment shall sign contracts with the leading organizations of research topics, projects, and programs that are budgetary units under the Ministry;

c) The Office of the Ministry, the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment shall jointly act on behalf of the Minister to sign contracts with the leading organizations of research topics, projects, and programs that are not budgetary units under the Ministry.

3. For research topics, projects, and programs assigned to General Departments for management.

a) Within five working days from the date of receiving the detailed description from the leading organization, the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment shall review and transfer the dossier of research topics, projects, and programs to the specialized General Department for management;

b) Within fifteen days from the date of receiving the dossier of research topics, projects, and programs from the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment, the General Department Director shall review, approve the detailed description, and sign a contract with the leading organization of the research topic, project, or program.

4. For potential research topics

a) Within five working days from the date of receiving the detailed description from the leading organization, the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment shall review and transfer the dossier of potential research topics to the affiliated agencies or organizations under the Ministry;

b) Within fifteen days from the date of receiving the dossier of potential research topics from the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment, the head of the affiliated agency or organization under the Ministry shall review, approve the detailed description, and sign a contract.

5. The scientific research and technology development contract shall be in accordance with the model prescribed in Circular No. 05/2014/TT-BKHCN".

20. Amend and supplement the name of Section 3 Chapter II and Article 16 as follows:

"Section 3

REPORTING, INSPECTION, ADJUSTMENT, EVALUATION, AND ACCEPTANCE OF RESULTS OF IMPLEMENTING SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL TASKS
The leading organization of the scientific and technological task shall report the results of implementation according to Model B15. BCĐK-BNN issued together with this Circular to the managing organization for reporting to the Ministry before May 30 and November 30 each year or at any time when required. In case the leading organization fails to report progress as prescribed for two times or more, funding for implementing the task will be suspended and handled according to regulations".

Article 16. Reporting System

The organization in charge of the science and technology task shall report on the implementation results according to Model B15. The BCĐK-BNN issued together with this Circular shall organize for the managing entity to report to the Ministry before May 30 and before November 30 each year, or report promptly when required. In case the organization in charge fails to submit progress reports as prescribed from two times or more, funding for implementing the task will be suspended and handled according to regulations.

21. Amend and supplement Article 17 as follows:

"Article 17. Inspection and evaluation during the implementation of scientific and technological tasks

1. Time and form of inspection and evaluation:

a) For research topics, projects, and science and technology development programs: once every year from the date the contract becomes effective;

b) For potential research topics: once when the topic has been implemented for half of its duration;

c) Inspection and evaluation during the implementation of scientific and technological tasks shall be conducted through direct or online forms.

2. Composition of the inspection and evaluation team:

a) For research topics, potential research topics, projects, and science and technology development programs directly managed by the Ministry: the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment shall lead, coordinate with the Department of Finance, General Departments, specialized agencies related to the matter, the Specialized Institute for Ranking (in cases where the leading organizations are subordinate units), the Ministry's Office (in cases where the leading organizations are not budgetary units under the Ministry), and experts who are members of the advisory council for selection and direct assignment of tasks (if necessary);

b) For research topics, projects, and science and technology development programs managed by General Departments: the General Department shall lead, coordinate with the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment, relevant units, and experts who are members of the advisory council for selection and direct assignment of tasks (if necessary).

3. Surprise inspections:

a) The Minister decides to establish a surprise inspection team in the following situations upon receiving complaints, accusations, or discovering signs of violations or non-compliance with the approved detailed description during management;

b) The composition of the inspection team shall follow the provisions of Clause 2 of this Article.

4. Conditions and principles of inspection and evaluation:

a) Conditions for inspection and evaluation: The inspection and evaluation team shall be organized upon receipt of the report according to Model B15.BCĐK-BNN issued together with this Circular and related documents from the organization responsible for implementation. The composition of the inspection team shall follow the provisions of Clause 2 of this Article;

b) Principles of inspection and evaluation shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of Article 4 of Circular No. 04/2015/TT-BKHCN.

5. Content of inspection and evaluation and handling after completion of inspection and evaluation:

a) The content of inspection and evaluation shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of Article 3 of Circular No. 04/2015/TT-BKHCN;

b) Handling after completion of inspection and evaluation: based on the inspection record, the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment, and the specialized General Department shall adjust the scientific and technological tasks according to the provisions of Article 18 of this Circular.

6. Funding for regular and surprise inspections and evaluations shall be allocated from the state budget for scientific and technological activities.

22. Supplement Article 17a and amend and supplement Article 18 as follows:

"Article 17a. Inspection of scientific and technological tasks after acceptance

1. Method and form of inspection:

a) Starting from the date when the scientific and technological task funded by the state budget is officially accepted, it shall be inspected once every twelve months and over a five-year period. The organization entrusted with ownership and usage rights of the results of the scientific and technological task shall be responsible for reporting on the application of the results of the scientific and technological task according to Model B28.BCUDKQDTA-BNN issued together with this Circular;

b) Organizations under the Ministry that build reports on the application of scientific and technological tasks shall send them to the affiliated scientific and technological organizations (directly managing organizations). Affiliated scientific and technological organizations under the Ministry shall compile the results of the application, including the results of applying scientific and technological tasks they have led, and report to the Ministry (through the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment for scientific and technological tasks directly managed by the Ministry or General Departments for scientific and technological tasks assigned to General Departments for management);

c) Organizations not under the Ministry shall build comprehensive reports on the application of scientific and technological tasks and submit them to the Ministry (through the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment for scientific and technological tasks directly managed by the Ministry or General Departments for scientific and technological tasks assigned to General Departments for management);

d) The Department of Science, Technology, and Environment (for scientific and technological tasks directly managed by the Ministry) or General Departments (for scientific and technological tasks assigned to General Departments for management) shall select and organize on-site inspections of the implementation of the application of research results of some scientific and technological tasks;

đ) Conduct surprise inspections when there are complaints or accusations regarding the application of the results of scientific and technological tasks;

e) The composition of the inspection team shall follow the provisions of Clause 2 of Article 17 of this Circular;

g) Inspection of scientific and technological tasks after acceptance shall be conducted through direct or online forms;

h) Funding for inspection shall be allocated from the state budget for scientific and technological activities.

2. Inspecting agency:

a) The Department of Science, Technology, and Environment shall lead and coordinate with relevant units to conduct inspections of scientific and technological tasks after acceptance for scientific and technological tasks managed by the Ministry;

b) General Departments shall lead and coordinate with relevant units to conduct inspections of scientific and technological tasks after acceptance for scientific and technological tasks assigned to them for management.

3. Handling after completion of inspection:

a) Organizations and individuals entrusted with ownership and usage rights of the results of scientific and technological tasks who fail to fulfill their responsibility to report on the application of the results of the scientific and technological tasks shall be restricted from participating in the selection and direct implementation of scientific and technological tasks according to the provisions of Article 7 of this Circular;

b) In cases where organizations or individuals are entrusted with the right to use assets formed through the implementation of scientific and technological tasks but do not directly implement or participate in applying scientific and technological research results to production, they will not be allowed to undertake state-budget-funded scientific and technological tasks for three years from the date of the inspection team's conclusion;

c) General Departments shall report the situation of applying the results of state-budget-funded scientific and technological tasks they manage to the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment. The Department of Science, Technology, and Environment shall compile the situation of application, including the situation of applying the results of scientific and technological tasks directly managed by the Department, and report to the Ministry Leadership.

Article 18. Adjustment and Termination of Scientific and Technological Tasks

1. The main organization of the scientific and technological task shall directly submit, or send via postal service, or online the request for adjustment to the Department of Science, Technology and Environment (for research topics, projects, potential research topics, and S&T development projects directly managed by the Ministry) or the General Department (for research topics and S&T development projects assigned to manage).

2. Within five working days from the date of receipt of the adjustment request document, the specialized General Department shall report to the Ministry (through the Department of Science, Technology and Environment) to adjust the content according to the provisions of Clause 3 of this Article.

3. Within ten working days from the date of receipt of the document from the General Department (for research topics and S&T development projects assigned to manage) or from the date of receipt of the adjustment request document from the main organization (for research topics, projects, potential research topics, and S&T development projects directly managed by the Ministry), the Department of Science, Technology and Environment shall take the lead in coordinating with relevant units (if necessary) to report to the Minister for consideration and decision on the following adjustments:

a) Adjustment of implementation time: thirty days before the end of the implementation period of the scientific and technological task, the main agency shall submit a document requesting adjustment of the implementation time to the managing unit. The adjustment of the implementation time of the scientific and technological task can only be carried out once, not exceeding twelve months for tasks with an implementation period of twenty-four months or more, and not exceeding six months for tasks with an implementation period under twenty-four months. In special cases, the Minister shall decide;

b) Change of the head of the scientific and technological task may be implemented in the following cases: retirement according to regulations (if the main unit has a document requesting a change of the head); transfer of work; going abroad for study or work for more than six months; illness or disease (with confirmation from a competent health authority) that prevents the ability to manage research activities; violation of financial management principles; failure to complete the schedule and content as ordered without a valid reason or violation of the law requiring suspension of work. The new head of the scientific and technological task must meet the requirements stipulated in Clause 2 of Article 7 of this Circular;

c) Adjustment of the name, objectives, products, and total budget of the scientific and technological task: the Department of Science, Technology and Environment shall report to the Ministry to establish a Scientific and Technological Advisory Board or seek opinions from related agencies, organizations, or individuals for review. The composition, procedure, and principles of operation of the Board are regulated in Article 10 of this Circular, prioritizing members who have participated in the advisory board for selecting and directly assigning scientific and technological tasks. Based on the minutes of the Board or expert opinions, the Department of Science, Technology and Environment shall report to the Minister for consideration and decision on the adjustment.

4. Adjustment of some explanatory contents that do not change the objectives, products, and total budget of the scientific and technological task shall be carried out as follows:

a) Within ten working days from the date of receipt of the adjustment request document, the Department of Science, Technology and Environment shall adjust research topics, projects, potential research topics, and S&T development projects directly managed by the Ministry;

b) Within ten working days from the date of receipt of the adjustment request document, the General Department shall adjust research topics, projects, and S&T development projects assigned to manage.

5. Adjustment of participating members, cooperating units, and allocated budget for activities of the scientific and technological task: the main organization of the scientific and technological task shall implement the adjustment and bear responsibility under the law.

6. Termination of the implementation of the scientific and technological task in accordance with Circular No. 04/2015/TT-BKHCN.

" Article 18a. Self-assessment of the results of scientific and technological tasks implementation

1. The head of the organization in charge shall conduct self-assessment of the results of scientific and technological tasks implementation according to Points b, c, d, đ, and e of Clause 1, Article 18b, Article 19a, and Article 19b of this Circular before submitting the evaluation and acceptance dossier at the Ministry level.

2. The results of self-assessment shall be compiled and reported using Form B17.BCTDG-BNN issued together with this Circular.

Article 18b. Dossier for Acceptance at the Ministry Level

1. The acceptance dossier includes:

a) A letter requesting acceptance from the unit according to Form B16.CVNT-BNN issued together with this Circular;

b) A report on self-assessment of the results of implementation according to Form B17.BCTDG-BNN issued together with this Circular;

c) A summary report according to Form B18.BCTK-BNN issued together with this Circular;

d) An executive summary according to Form B19.BCTT-BNN issued together with this Circular;

đ) Scientific products of the task (with confirmation from competent authorities);

e) Related documents including: Statistical reports according to Form B20.BCTKE-BNN; financial reports on the implementation of the task according to Form B21.BCKP-BNN issued together with this Circular; minutes of inspection; scientific and technical reports (if any); periodic reports; research and development contracts; comprehensive descriptions of the approved task; original data, experimental logs, foreign survey reports (if any), comments from enterprises and localities (if any).

2. Submission of Evaluation and Acceptance Dossier

a) Organizations or individuals in charge of the task must submit the application for evaluation and acceptance within the latest 60 days from the end date of the implementation period as decided in the approval decision, contract, or time adjustment (if any);

b) The dossier can be submitted directly, via postal service, or online to the Ministry (through the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment) for research topics, projects, and potential topics directly managed by the Ministry; sent to the General Administration for research topics, projects, and potential topics directly managed by the General Administration;

c) For direct submission or submission via postal service, the dossier must include one original set according to Clause 1 of this Article, stamped and signed directly, and one electronic copy (in PDF format);

d) For online submission, the dossier must include one original set according to Clause 1 of this Article, stamped and signed directly, digitalized documents in PDF format;

đ) The unit responsible for managing the scientific and technological task shall issue a receipt for the dossier and preliminarily assess its validity according to Form B22.PNHSNT-BNN issued together with this Circular. In case the dossier is not valid, the main organization shall supplement the dossier according to regulations.

Article 19. Evaluation and Acceptance of Scientific and Technological Tasks

1. Establishment of the Advisory Board for Evaluation and Acceptance of Scientific and Technological Tasks:

a) For research topics, projects, and potential topics directly managed by the Ministry: The Department of Science, Technology, and Environment shall propose the establishment of the Board to the Ministry;

b) For research topics, projects, and potential topics directly managed by the General Administration: The General Administration shall propose the establishment of the Board to the Ministry;

c) The Minister decides on the establishment of the Advisory Board for Evaluation and Acceptance of Scientific and Technological Tasks. The composition of the Board is regulated in Clause 2, Article 5; the principles and responsibilities of the Board are regulated in Clause 2 and Clause 3, Article 10 of this Circular. Individuals specified in Clause 4, Article 10 of this Circular shall not participate in the Board.

2. Procedures for the Advisory Board's Work:

a) Council meetings are held in person or online;

b) The Board elects a ballot committee consisting of three members of the Board, including the Chair of the ballot committee and two members;

c) The Head of the task presents a summary of the implementation process, reports on scientific and technological products, and the self-assessment report on the results of the task implementation;

d) Members of the Board ask questions to the Head of the task regarding the results and related issues. The Head of the task and relevant individuals answer the questions of the Board (if any) and do not continue to attend the Board meeting;

đ) Reviewers and members of the Board present their observations on the results of the task implementation according to Form B23a.PNXKQDTA-BNN; economic policy agricultural and rural development projects and topics according to Form B23b.PNXKQDTKTCS-BNN issued together with this Circular;

e) Members of the Board evaluate and classify the task according to Form B24.PDGKQDTA-BNN; the Board conducts voting to evaluate the results of the task; the ballot committee compiles and reports the voting results according to Form B25.BBKPKQDTA-BNN issued together with this Circular;

g) The Board unanimously approves the minutes of the meeting according to Form B26.BBDGKQDTA-BNN issued together with this Circular".

24. Supplement Article 19a, Article 19b, and amend and supplement Article 20 as follows:

" Article 19a. Content of evaluation and requirements for products

1. Content of Assessment

a) Comprehensive report: Evaluation of the completeness, clarity, authenticity, and logical structure of the comprehensive report (research methods, techniques used...) and necessary accompanying documents (design documents, technology documents, intermediate products, cited documents);

b) Products of the task compared to the order, including: Quantity, volume of products; product quality; type of product; features and technical specifications of the product.

2. Requirements for the comprehensive report

a) An overview of existing research results related to the task;

b) Data and materials with representativeness, reliability, authenticity, and up-to-date information;

c) The content of the report must present all research results systematically and logically according to scientific structure with specific theoretical and practical bases to address research issues, truthfully reflecting the results of the science and technology task;

d) The content structure and scientific writing style must be appropriate.

3. Requirements for products

In addition to the requirements stated in the contract and task description, the products must meet the following requirements:

a) For products such as samples; materials; equipment, machinery; production lines; crop seeds; livestock and fishery breeds, and other measurable products that need to be tested, evaluated, or inspected at relevant specialized agencies;

b) For products such as application principles; methods; standards; regulations; computer software; design drawings; technological processes; diagrams, maps; data, databases; analytical reports; forecasting documents (methods, processes, models); plans, master plans; economic-technical justifications, feasibility studies, and similar products that need to be reviewed by a specialized scientific council or a team of experts established by the task's leading organization;

c) For products such as postgraduate training outcomes, useful solutions, inventions, publications, and similar products that require proof or confirmation from relevant authorities.

Article 19b. Methods of evaluation and classification

1. Evaluation by Council members

a) Each type of product is evaluated based on criteria regarding quantity, volume, and quality according to three levels: "Excellent" if it exceeds the order requirements; "Pass" if it meets the order requirements fully; "Fail" if it does not meet the order requirements fully;

b) The comprehensive report is evaluated based on three levels: "Excellent" if the comprehensive report is complete and meets the requirements stipulated in Clause 2 of Article 19a of this Circular; "Pass" if the comprehensive report needs revision and supplementation but can be completed; "Fail" if it does not fall into either of the two cases above;

c) Overall evaluation based on three levels: "Excellent" if all product criteria reach the "Excellent" level and the comprehensive report reaches the "Pass" level or higher; "Pass" if it simultaneously meets the following requirements: all product quality and type criteria reach the "Pass" level or higher; at least 3/4 of the quantity and volume criteria reach the "Pass" level or higher (products failing in quantity and volume still need to ensure at least 3/4 of the order requirements), and the comprehensive report reaches the "Pass" level or higher; "Fail" if it does not fall into either of the two cases above or if the application is submitted more than six months late from the contract completion date or the extended date (if applicable).

2. Evaluation and classification by the Council

a) "Excellent" level if at least 3/4 of the attending Council members unanimously rate "Excellent" and no member rates "Fail";

b) "Fail" level if more than 1/3 of the attending Council members rate "Fail"; or if the application is submitted more than twelve months late from the contract completion date or the extended date (if applicable);

c) "Pass" level if the task does not fall under point a or point b of this clause.

Article 20. Handling the Results of Evaluation and Acceptance at the Ministry Level

1. For scientific and technological tasks evaluated and classified at level "Pass" or higher

a) Within thirty working days from the date of receipt of the evaluation results at the Ministry level, the organization in charge of implementation and the individual head of the project shall complete the dossier according to the opinions and conclusions of the Evaluation and Acceptance Council and submit it to the agency responsible for managing the scientific and technological task;

b) The agency responsible for managing the scientific and technological task shall cooperate with the chairman of the Evaluation and Acceptance Council to inspect and supervise the completion of the evaluation dossier of the scientific and technological task. The chairman of the council shall confirm the completion of the dossier by the organization in charge of the scientific and technological task.

2. For scientific and technological tasks classified at level "Fail": the agency or unit responsible for managing the scientific and technological task shall take the lead and coordinate with related units to determine the causes and extent of violations and handle them according to current regulations, and the organization in charge and the individual head of the scientific and technological task shall not be eligible to participate in direct selection and assignment as stipulated in Article 7 of this Circular.

25. Amend and supplement Article 21 as follows:

"Article 21. Submission of Products, Recognition of Results, Preservation of Files, and Liquidation of Contracts for Scientific and Technological Tasks

1. Within sixty days from the date the scientific and technological task is accepted at level "Pass" or higher, the head of the task shall carry out the submission of products and preservation of files as follows:

a) Submit the registration for preservation of the results of the scientific and technological task in accordance with Circular No. 14/2014/TT-BKHCN dated June 11, 2014, issued by the Ministry of Science and Technology on the collection, registration, preservation, and publication of information about scientific and technological tasks;

b) Submit a copy of the Certificate of Registration of the Results of Implementing the Scientific and Technological Task using State budget funds to the agency responsible for managing the scientific and technological task;

c) Preserve a set of files at the Department of Science, Technology and Environment, General Bureau (for projects managed by the General Bureau) and the Information and Statistics Center (Library of the Ministry), including: the comprehensive report and summary report of the results of implementing the project, the scientific products of the project, program, and project (paper and electronic versions) and related documents.

2. Based on the minutes of acceptance and the documents specified in points b and c of Clause 1 of this Article:

a) For research and development projects and potential projects directly managed by the Ministry: the Department of Science, Technology and Environment shall submit to the Ministry for a decision to recognize the results;

b) For research and development projects managed by the General Bureau: the General Bureau shall submit to the Ministry for a decision to recognize the results;

c) Model of the Decision Recognizing the Results: Model B27.CNKQĐTDA-BNN promulgated together with this Circular.

3. The party signing the contract shall be responsible for liquidating the research and development contract in accordance with Circular No. 05/2014/TT-BKHCN.

4. The agency responsible for managing the scientific and technological task shall be responsible for publishing the main research results of the task on the Ministry's electronic portal.

5. The publication shall be carried out in accordance with Circular No. 14/2015/TT-BKHCN dated June 11, 2014, issued by the Ministry of Science and Technology on the collection, registration, preservation, and publication of information about scientific and technological tasks.

"Section 4
MANAGEMENT OF FINANCIAL AND ASSET RESOURCES FOR SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL TASKS;
MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION OF IMPLEMENTATION OF TASKS UNDER THE CHAPTER
MAINTENANCE AND SUSTAINABLE USE OF GENETIC RESOURCES

Article 22. Finalizing State Science and Technology Tasks

The work of reporting and finalizing funds from the state budget shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of the State Budget Law and current guiding documents.

"Article 22a. Management and Use of Assets Formed Through the Implementation of State-Funded Science and Technology Tasks

1. Assets formed through the implementation of science and technology tasks funded by state capital shall be managed in accordance with the following regulations: Decree No. 70/2018/ND-CP dated May 15, 2018 on the management and use of assets formed through the implementation of science and technology tasks funded by state capital; Circular No. 02/2020/TT-BKHCN dated August 18, 2020 of the Ministry of Science and Technology guiding the implementation of Clause 1, Article 41 of Decree No. 70/2018/ND-CP dated May 15, 2018; Circular No. 63/2018/TT-BTC of the Ministry of Finance guiding certain provisions of Decree No. 70/2018/ND-CP dated May 15, 2018; Circular No. 10/2019/TT-BTC dated February 20, 2019 of the Ministry of Finance guiding the determination of the value of assets that are results of science and technology tasks funded by state capital, and other relevant current documents.

2. For research topics, projects, and potential topics directly managed by the Ministry: The Department of Science, Technology, and Environment shall take the lead, coordinating with relevant agencies to review proposals made by the leading organizations or individuals; submit to the Minister for consideration and decision on transferring ownership and usage rights to the leading organizations or individuals.

3. For research topics, projects, and programs directly managed by the General Department: The General Department shall take the lead, coordinating with relevant agencies to review proposals made by the leading organizations or individuals; submit to the Minister for consideration and decision on transferring ownership and usage rights to the leading organizations or individuals.

4. In cases where the leading organizations or individuals do not propose the transfer of ownership and usage rights, or lack the capacity to research, develop technology, technological products, applications, or commercialize research results, the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment, and the specialized General Department shall report to the Minister to transfer to other organizations or individuals with such needs according to regulations.

Article 22b. Dissemination of Research Results and Transfer of Agricultural Science and Technology

1. Annually, the leading organization of the science and technology task shall organize evaluations and exchanges of research results, applications, and technology transfers; publish and disseminate on mass media.

2. Every three years, the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment shall take the lead, coordinating with related units to organize conferences and seminars to evaluate scientific research activities and technology transfers, and announce prominent research results of agricultural science and technology activities and rural development.

Article 22c. Approval of Framework Programs and Lists of Conservation Genetic Resources Tasks

1. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development shall approve the framework program for conserving genetic resources in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries for a five-year period in accordance with point a, Clause 2, Article 4 of Circular No. 17/2016/TT-BKHCN dated September 1, 2016 of the Ministry of Science and Technology.

2. Based on the approved framework program for conserving genetic resources at the ministry level, before June 30 each year, the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment shall submit to the Ministry for approval of the list of conservation genetic resources tasks in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries (including the name of the task, the assigned leading organization, objectives, products, and estimated implementation budget) for the following year.

Article 22d. Evaluation, acceptance of results and approval of the mission description for genetic resource conservation

1. Before November 30 each year, the Minister decides to establish the Advisory Council on Science and Technology to evaluate, accept the results of the annual plan implementation, review the mission descriptions and budgets for the following year of genetic resource conservation tasks.

The Advisory Council on Science and Technology evaluates, accepts results, reviews mission descriptions and budgets for genetic resource conservation tasks according to the provisions of Clause 2 and Clause 3, Article 5 of this Circular.

2. Based on the results of the Council, the Department of Science, Technology and Environment submits to the Ministry for approval of the content and budget for implementing genetic resource conservation tasks (including the name of the task, the organization and individual in charge, objectives, products and implementation budget) before December 20 each year.

Article 22đ. Implementation of genetic resource conservation tasks

1. The Department of Science, Technology and Environment coordinates with the Finance Department to approve the mission descriptions; the Department of Science, Technology and Environment signs contracts for implementation with the organizations and individuals in charge of genetic resource conservation tasks annually.

2. Reporting, inspection, and adjustment of genetic resource conservation tasks are carried out according to Section 3 Chapter II of this Circular."

28. Amend and supplement Article 23 as follows:

"Article 23. Authorities and responsibilities of agencies and units under the Ministry

1. The Department of Science, Technology and Environment shall take the lead:

a) Directing, organizing the implementation and inspecting the execution of this Circular;

b) Building and submitting to the Ministry for issuance the list of scientific and technological tasks;

c) Selecting and directly assigning organizations and individuals to implement scientific and technological tasks;

d) Reviewing the content and budget for implementing scientific and technological tasks; submitting to the Minister for decision on approving the content and budget for implementing scientific and technological tasks; submitting to the Ministry for decision on assigning certain research topics, projects, and programs to management by General Departments;

đ) Approving the mission descriptions of scientific and technological tasks directly managed by the Ministry;

e) Announcing the content and budget for scientific and technological tasks;

g) Adjusting scientific and technological tasks according to regulations;

h) Inspecting, evaluating, accepting, and liquidating contracts for implementing scientific and technological tasks directly managed by the Ministry; submitting to the Minister for decision on recognizing the results of implementing scientific and technological tasks directly managed by the Ministry;

i) Directing and organizing the implementation of management and use of assets formed through the implementation of scientific and technological tasks using state funds according to current regulations;

k) Organizing conferences and seminars every three years to evaluate scientific research and technology transfer activities and announce prominent research results of scientific and technological activities;

l) Summarizing and reporting on scientific and technological activities of relevant ministries, sectors, localities, and enterprises related to agriculture;

m) Implementing other tasks assigned in this Circular, being responsible to the Minister and to the law for the results of implementation;

2. Department of Finance

a) Providing financial business guidance and current state regulations to organizations and individuals participating in scientific and technological activities;

b) Coordinating with the Department of Science, Technology and Environment: reviewing the content and budget for implementing scientific and technological tasks; approving the mission descriptions of scientific and technological tasks directly managed by the Ministry;

c) Taking the lead in allocating and settling accounts for the budget according to regulations;

d) Coordinating supervision and inspection of the implementation of scientific and technological tasks;

đ) Implementing other tasks assigned in this Circular, being responsible to the Minister and to the law for the results of implementation;

3. The Office of the Ministry

a) The Office of the Ministry and the Department of Science, Technology and Environment jointly sign contracts for implementation with the organizations in charge of research topics, projects, and programs not belonging to the Ministry's budget units upon the Minister's instruction;

b) Coordinating with the Department of Science, Technology and Environment to supervise and inspect the implementation of scientific and technological tasks (for cases where the organizations in charge are not budget units of the Ministry);

c) Taking the lead in temporarily advancing, settling accounts for the budget according to regulations (for organizations in charge that are not budget units of the Ministry);

4. Sector Management General Departments

a) Proposing orders for scientific and technological tasks; providing opinions on the list of ordered scientific and technological tasks compiled by the Department of Science, Technology and Environment and sent for comments;

b) Coordinating with the Department of Science, Technology and Environment to select and directly assign scientific and technological tasks; reviewing the content and budget for scientific and technological tasks; evaluating and accepting the results of implementing scientific and technological tasks;

c) Approving mission descriptions and signing contracts for research topics, projects, and programs under their management;

d) Leading inspections, evaluations, and acceptance of the results of implementing research topics, projects, and programs under their management; coordinating with related units to inspect, evaluate, and accept the results of implementing research topics, projects, and programs managed by the Ministry;

đ) Adjusting research topics, projects, and programs according to regulations;

e) Submitting to the Ministry for recognition of the results of implementing research topics, projects, and programs under their management;

g) Reporting results to the Ministry (through the Department of Science, Technology and Environment) before June 15 and December 15 each year and reporting promptly as required by the Ministry;

h) Implementing other tasks assigned in this Circular, being responsible to the Minister and to the law for the results of implementation;

5. Sector Management Departments

a) Proposing orders for scientific and technological tasks; providing opinions on the list of ordered scientific and technological tasks compiled by the Department of Science, Technology and Environment and sent for comments;

b) Coordinating with the Department of Science, Technology and Environment to select and directly assign, review the content and budget for scientific and technological tasks;

c) Coordinating inspections, evaluations, and acceptance of the results of implementing scientific and technological tasks;

d) Implementing other tasks assigned in this Circular, being responsible to the Minister and to the law for the results of implementation";

"Article 23a. Powers and responsibilities of units under the Ministry

1. Manage effectively the assigned scientific and technological tasks.

2. Propose scientific and technological tasks according to their assigned functions and duties.

3. Approve the detailed description and sign responsibility contracts for potential topics as assigned by the Ministry.

4. Enjoy copyright benefits for scientific works managed by themselves in accordance with the provisions of the law and use management funds for scientific and technological tasks as stipulated.

5. Report annually on outstanding research and technology transfer results of the unit and at any time when required.

6. Lead, guide, inspect, evaluate, and compile information on the implementation of scientific and technological activities as prescribed by law.

7. Organize the implementation of other tasks assigned in this Circular and be responsible before the Minister and the law for the results of such implementation.

Article 24. Powers and responsibilities of the leading organization

1. Be responsible for implementing and managing effectively the assigned scientific and technological tasks; be responsible before the Minister for the products ordered by the Ministry. In case the task is evaluated as "unsatisfactory," there must be responsibility to determine and agree on the amount of funds to be recovered from related parties (task leader, individuals directly involved in the task) to fulfill the obligation to repay state budget funds.

2. Be responsible for the content of the detailed description and budget estimates of scientific and technological activities to meet the objectives and produce the products as approved by the Ministry.

3. Directly implement the deployment of scientific and technological activities to achieve the objectives and ordered products, ensuring compliance with the specified timeframe.

4. Organize inspection, evaluation, and acceptance, and be responsible before the Minister and the law for the results of the implementation of scientific and technological tasks.

5. Enjoy copyright benefits for scientific works managed by themselves in accordance with the provisions of the law and use management funds for scientific and technological tasks as stipulated.

6. Regularly or at any time (when required) report on the results of the implementation of scientific and technological tasks as prescribed.

7. Report financial statements in accordance with current regulations and be responsible for providing complete documentation for audit, inspection, and auditing work when required.

8. Report on research results, technology transfer, and application of the outcomes of scientific and technological tasks.

9. Be responsible before the law and the Minister for the legality and appropriateness of the results and use of funds for assigned scientific and technological activities.

30. Amend and supplement Article 25 as follows:

"Article 25. Powers and responsibilities of individual task leaders

1. Develop and perfect the detailed description of the scientific and technological task; implement the contents of the scientific and technological task according to the approved detailed description and signed contract, using funds in accordance with the provisions of the law.

2. Report fully, as required, and within the specified deadlines on the content, progress, products created, and the use of funds for the scientific and technological task.

3. Inspect and urge organizations and individuals participating in the implementation of the task according to the contract. Conduct regular reports (twice a year), special reports on progress, fund usage, and task implementation results to the leading organization. Lead in compiling the scientific and technological summary report and other documents as per the signed contract.

4. Enjoy copyright benefits for scientific works created by themselves and supplementary allowances as prescribed by the law.

5. Be responsible before the law and the Minister for the legality and appropriateness of the results and use of funds for assigned scientific and technological activities.

Article 2. Repeal and replace certain provisions as follows:

1. Repeal Article 3 and Article 11 of Circular No. 18/2015/TT-BNNPTNT.

2. Repeal Articles 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, and Article 13 of Circular No. 43/2013/TT-BNNPTNT dated October 22, 2013, issued by the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development guiding the implementation of scientific and technological tasks management, financial management of scientific and technological tasks, and personnel organization work of public scientific and technological institutions under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

3. Repeal the Appendix attached to Circular No. 18/2015/TT-BNNPTNT and replace it with the Appendix attached to this Circular.

Article 3. Implementation Provisions

1. This Circular takes effect from February 16, 2022.

2. Scientific and technological tasks approved before the date this Circular takes effect shall continue to be implemented according to Circular No. 18/2015/TT-BNNPTNT.

During the implementation process, if there are any difficulties, agencies, organizations, and individuals are requested to report to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (through the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment) for research, amendment, and supplementation to ensure appropriateness.