Women play an important role in growth of Vietnam's banking sector

March brings the vibrant echoes of spring, filling every street with its lively colors. It is also the time when we joyfully celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8. In harmony with this spirit, on March 7, 2025, the Committee for the Advancement of Women in the Banking Sector, in collaboration with the Vietnam Bank Trade Union, has organized a ceremony to commemorate the 115th anniversary of International Women’s Day (March 8) and the 1985th anniversary of the Hai Ba Trung Uprising…

International Women’s Day on March 8 is an occasion for the world to honor the immense contributions of women across all fields. It is not only a day of celebration but also an important milestone reminding us of the sacrifices and struggles of women through generations for fairness, equality and development opportunities.

International Women’s Day originated from the labor movement of female workers in Western countries in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In Vietnam, this spirit has been further strengthened throughout the nation’s history. Especially, the Hai Ba Trung Uprising in the year 40 AD - one of the most glorious historical events affirming the role and strength of women in the country’s foundation and defense.

During the Ho Chi Minh era, Vietnamese women continued to uphold this tradition through the resistance wars against French colonialism and American imperialism. Many courageous figures such as Vo Thi Sau, Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Nguyen Thi Dinh, millions of young female volunteers and frontline workers, contributed to the nation’s great victories.

The patriotism and contributions of Vietnamese women did not end in wartime but have continued to flourish in the nation's construction and development today. Vietnamese women excel not only in their professions but also in their roles as family caretakers, helping to build a stable and sustainable society.

As female officers in the modern era, Ms. Nguyen Khanh Chi - Permanent Vice President of the Vietnam Bank Trade Union takes great pride in inheriting the fine traditions of previous generations of women. Regardless of their positions, female employees always strive to dedicate themselves, excelling in their professional duties while also taking care of their families. As the country deepens its global integration, the role of women is increasingly recognized. Numerous outstanding female leaders in politics, economics, science and education contribute to shaping a more civilized and progressive society.

Ms. Nguyen Khanh Chi - Permanent Vice President of the Vietnam Bank Trade Union reflects on the fine traditions of generations of women

In the banking sector, Ms. Chi emphasized that women in the industry are increasingly affirming their vital role. Not only do they hold key leadership positions, but they are also dedicated officers and union members who contribute to delivering high-quality financial services, supporting individuals and businesses in accessing capital, and driving economic growth. Despite the high-pressure nature of their work, women in the banking sector remain flexible, responsible, and committed to ethical standards, always prioritizing collective interests and making significant contributions to the industry’s sustainable development.

Currently, 100% of units under the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) and across the banking sector have female leaders in key positions. Women with a master's degree or higher account for 56.3%, while 42.2% participate in Party Committees at various levels for the 2020–2025 term. Additionally, 31% hold leadership positions at the department level, and 52.7% at the division level. Notably, as the banking sector approaches 70 years of development, Vietnam takes pride in having its first female Governor.

The Deputy Governors of the State Bank of Vietnam presented flowers to congratulate the speakers and female leaders within the banking sector

Not only are they dedicated in their work, but female banking officers are also caring wives and mothers who diligently take care of their families, raise their children and build happy homes. They are a living testament to the image of modern women who excel in both their professional and personal lives - "Skilled in banking, accomplished at home" - serving as role models for younger generations to follow.

Always recognizing and highly appreciating the vital contributions of women, Mr. Dao Minh Tu - Permanent Deputy Governor of the State Bank of Vietnam, Chairman of the Vietnam Bank Trade Union and Head of the Committee for the Advancement of Women in the Banking Sector emphasized that these contributions have directly contributed to the overall achievements of the banking industry, especially during recent challenging periods. In his role as Head of the Committee for the Advancement of Women in the Banking Sector, Mr. Dao Minh Tu acknowledged that leaders at all levels are committed to ensuring progress and equality for women in the banking sector.

However, despite these proud achievements, women still face numerous difficulties and challenges. The pressures from work, family and society often require them to exert multiple times the effort compared to men, especially in the context of digital transformation and global integration.

"Therefore, we hope for greater support, understanding and encouragement from families, organizations, and society as a whole so that women have the opportunity to develop comprehensively, protect their legitimate rights, and achieve a better work-life balance. At the same time, women themselves must continue to learn, enhance their knowledge and skills and confidently assert their abilities. Today’s women not only need to be competent and hardworking but also proactive in seizing opportunities for advancement", shared Ms. Nguyen Khanh Chi - Permanent Vice President of the Vietnam Bank Trade Union.

Especially in the digital era and global integration, with the challenges and opportunities brought by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, digital transformation, and sustainable development, women in the banking sector are committed to continuous innovation, proactively enhancing their expertise, management skills, and adaptability. "We are ready to take the lead in strategic fields such as digital banking, fintech and ESG, contributing to elevating Vietnam’s banking sector to an international level and affirming its crucial role in the country's development," affirmed Ms. Chi.

In the coming period, the banking sector will implement the best mechanisms, policies and solutions to ensure that women have the opportunity to enhance their skills in the era of digital transformation. Given the current landscape, the banking sector is focusing its resources on fulfilling numerous critical tasks. With 58% of the workforce being female, Deputy Governor Dao Minh Tu expressed his hope that women would continue to play an active role and strive alongside men to achieve the best possible outcomes.

"Passion will only grow stronger in every position, driving the banking sector forward to successfully accomplish its assigned missions this year and in the years to come", affirmed Mr. Tu.

Huong Giang – Hoang Giap