In the era of global digitalization, network infrastructure and cybersecurity serve as the backbone for the sustainable operation of any enterprise. To provide a high-quality academic environment that helps students gain practical experience and prove their capabilities, the Faculty of Information Technology at Ho Chi Minh City University of Industry and Trade (HUIT) successfully organized the "Talent Administrator 2026" competition.

Going beyond the scale of a standard academic playground, "Talent Administrator 2026" was an intensely inspiring journey designed to nurture and honor the future "architects" of digital systems.

1. Scale and Mission

The competition was exclusively designed for postgraduate and undergraduate students majoring in Information Security, Information Technology, and Data Science nationwide. With the mission of bridging the gap between theory and practice, "Talent Administrator 2026" presented comprehensive challenges—from strategic thinking to practical execution—across two independent rounds:

• Preliminary Round (Theory): A test of the candidates' comprehensive analytical skills through a 60-minute, 60-question paper-based multiple-choice exam. The test covered core knowledge areas, including Cisco Network Administration, Windows, Linux, system monitoring tools, and Cloud Computing (VMware, AWS, Azure).

• Final Round (Practice): A practical battlefield for the top 60 outstanding "warriors," held at HUIT's computer labs A304 and A306. Under the pressure of a 90-minute limit, contestants had to directly configure networks on Packet Tracer, operate VMWare Workstation virtualization systems (Windows Server, CentOS 9), and solve a highly relevant modern problem: Applying AI in network monitoring, response, and security.

To ensure the highest level of transparency and professional quality, the competition enforced a strict "closed-book" policy (no reference materials, no Internet access). Furthermore, the final results were evaluated based on a golden ratio of 40% Theory + 60% Practice, judged fairly by a distinguished panel of Ph.D. and Master's degree holders from HUIT, Hung Vuong University, and Van Lang University.

2. The Spirit and Core Values of the Competition

A Launchpad for "Digital Warriors"

The greatest appeal of "Talent Administrator 2026" lay in its fierce, realistic competitive spirit. Disconnecting all Internet access and support devices in the exam room forced candidates to rely entirely on their true competence, agility, and unyielding resilience. Witnessing their intense focus and determination as they troubleshot network issues in split seconds truly highlighted the passion and ambition of the younger generation.

Technological Vision in Tune with the Times

The organizing committee demonstrated exceptional foresight by integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) trends into the practical exam. This elevated the competition beyond traditional frameworks, stimulating innovative thinking and ensuring that students are not only proficient in traditional technical skills but also ready to master the breakthrough technologies of the future.

Worthy Rewards for Extraordinary Efforts

Beyond the value of knowledge gained, the competition's prizes served as a precious recognition of the sleepless nights of study and practice put in by these young talents:

Conclusion

The "Talent Administrator 2026" competition concluded with resounding success, leaving a distinct mark as a professional, prestigious, and high-class academic playground. The event not only honored the most outstanding individuals but also reaffirmed the strategic vision of the Faculty of Information Technology - HUIT in training high-quality human resources for the nation.

Congratulations to all the contestants who pushed past their limits to become talented administrators, ready to protect and develop Vietnam's digital space as it steps onto the global stage!