Ministry of Science and Technology Issues Regulation on Periodic Personnel Rotation in Local Governments
The Ministry of Science and Technology has issued Circular No. 52/2026/TT-BKHCN, which requires employees in 11 job position groups within local governments to be transferred to another location after 2 to 5 years of actual work experience.
The Ministry of Science and Technology has implemented a new regulation covering public employees working in the field of science and technology at the local government level. With Circular No. 52/2026/TT-BKHCN, it has become mandatory for employees in 11 different job position groups to be periodically transferred to another location after specific periods.
Scope and Target Audience of the Circular
Circular No. 52/2026/TT-BKHCN published by the Ministry of Science and Technology directly targets institutions, organizations, and units in the field of science and technology at the local government level. These regulations primarily apply to public officials who do not hold leadership or management positions.
Officials Subject to Rotation
Officials who directly interact with and handle issues related to the state administration of science and technology management at the local level are also subject to the regulations of this circular. The rotation period begins from the moment the official document of the competent authority regarding assignment, appointment, or transfer of duties comes into effect.
Science and Technology Tasks Group
The list of positions subject to periodic rotation includes many different key areas. The first group includes the allocation, evaluation, and review of scientific and innovative tasks, as well as technology assessment and transfer.
Organization and Enterprise Management
Persons responsible for managing scientific organizations, licensing science and technology enterprises, or operating in the fields of high technology and strategic technology are also included in the group subject to rotation.
Nuclear and Radiation Safety
Positions responsible for atomic energy, radiation safety, and nuclear issues are also among the areas subject to mandatory job changes. Experts working in these units are also required to comply with the new rules.
Intellectual Property and Standards
Intellectual property authorities involved in processes such as issuing professional licenses, issuing protection certificates, or handling matters related to technical standards, regulations, measurement, and quality are also required to comply with the new regulations.
Digital Technology and Telecommunications
The circular expands the scope of application to include postal services, telecommunications, and radio frequencies. Periodic rotations will be applied to positions in the fields of digital technology management, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and e-commerce.
Process and Effective Date
Civil servants and public employees directly involved in specialized tasks will be required to transition to a new position after completing 2 to 5 years of actual service time. This circular will officially enter into force on October 15, 2026.