HANOI – Vietnam's technology and business communities are in deep mourning following the news of the passing of Hoang Nam Tien, the Vice Chairman of the FPT University School Council and one of the country's most prominent corporate figures. An influential leader known for his dynamic vision and passionate advocacy for innovation, he passed away on the afternoon of July 31 at the age of 57.
His death has sent shockwaves through the industry, where he was regarded not just as a senior executive but as a powerful and tireless source of inspiration for technology and entrepreneurship, especially among the nation's youth.
Mr. Tien's career was intrinsically linked with the rise of FPT Corporation, Vietnam's largest technology conglomerate. Before assuming his final, prominent role at FPT University—the corporation's highly-regarded educational arm—he held numerous key leadership positions across the FPT ecosystem. Notably, he served as the Chairman of FPT Software, the company's global software outsourcing giant, where his leadership was instrumental in driving the company's international expansion and solidifying its position on the global stage.
However, it was perhaps his role as a public speaker and mentor to the younger generation that best defined his later legacy. Known for his energetic, candid, and often humorous speaking style, Hoang Nam Tien had a unique ability to demystify complex technological concepts and ignite a passion for innovation in students and young professionals. He was a vocal advocate for digital transformation, constantly urging young Vietnamese to embrace change, challenge the status quo, and seize the opportunities of the digital age.
Tributes have poured in from across the country, with colleagues, former students, and fellow entrepreneurs remembering him as a charismatic leader and a dedicated mentor who profoundly shaped the aspirations of a generation.
The passing of Hoang Nam Tien leaves a significant void in Vietnam's tech community. He is remembered as a visionary executive, a passionate educator, and, most importantly, a guiding force who inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams in technology and business.