After the second half of 19th century, Vietnam was at risk of dehydration by the invasion of the French. Patriots, who were responsible for the destiny of the nation, submitted to the Nguyen Dynasty many proposals about national innovation. Nguyen Truong To who was considered as the most typically innovative thinker submitted to the Nguyen Dynasty about 58 proposals during the period from 1863 to 1871. Nguyen Truong To pointed out many fields which needed to be reformed such as politics, economy, military and diploma, etc in his proposals. Above all, he concerned most about education to improve awareness. However, he supposed that for effective learning, it was not enough to study only in the country but also need to study abroad. This idea came trom his patriotism, responsibility for the country and his understanding of the situation of the country and foreign countries. Although, basically, Nguyen Truong To failed in proposing national innovation, the issues he raised are still significantly valuable in this modem world because opening exchanges and learning advance trom foreign countries are essential methods for a country to stand strong and develop.