The programme, jointly launched by the Youth Union and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, aims to raise awareness on the importance of the rural economy and promote the start-up spirit among students.

Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy PM Hue stated that with about 34,000 products approved for the OCOP programme, the central and local governments will invest about VND15 trillion (US$645 million) in its implementation.

He added that this is a programme that students can take part in to promote local products with national value.

* On the same day, Deputy PM Vuong Dinh Hue also had a working session with the key leaders of the southern province of Dong Nai on its socio-economic development in 2018.

He recognised Dong Nai’s achievement as one of the provinces with the highest budget revenues and largest contributions to the central budget.

At the working session, Deputy PM Hue asked Dong Nai to work with relevant ministries and agencies to promote its role as a driving force for neighbouring provinces, while also calling for continued efforts to strengthen its new rural areas.

While in Dong Nai province, the Deputy PM also visited a resettlement zone for the Long Thanh International Airport project and a number of production models in Binh An commune of Long Thanh district.