HANOI, Dec. 20 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam's leading scientists, researchers and experts have formed the country's first independent policy research institute, local newspaper Young People reported Thursday.

    The newly-established Institute of Development Studies is to research and supply services about development plans and strategies to state agencies, social organizations, enterprises and individuals at home and abroad, said the institute's director Nguyen Quang A.

    From now to next June, the institute will conduct three research subjects: education and healthcare reform from economics view, some issues about rural areas and farmers, and economic growth quality and policy recommendations.

    The institute holds regular seminars twice a week and irregular ones, which are open to all people, and publish its research works.     

    Its members include Nguyen Quang A, Le Dang Doanh, Chu Hao, Tuong Lai, Pham Chi Lan, Phan Huy Le, Tran Duc Nguyen, Tran Viet Phuong and Hoang Tuy.