Vietnam has become a hub for higher education for more than 10,000 students from Laos, supported by government scholarships and other funding avenues.
The Lao Embassy in Vietnam shared these figures during a meeting on 12 July, reporting the growing trend of Lao nationals seeking educational opportunities across the border. Among the Lao students currently enrolled in Vietnamese universities, the majority are pursuing degrees in administration, public security, and defense.
Mick Phavongsa, a nursing student at Vinh University of Medicine in Nghe An Province, expressed optimism about her career prospects upon completing her studies
“I am currently awaiting my university completion certificate and plan to apply to a Vietnamese hospital in Vientiane as a nurse,” she said.
Many Lao students, like Mick, cite familial and cultural ties as influential factors in their decision to study in Vietnam. Proximity to home and familiarity with Vietnamese culture also contribute to their academic choices.
“I chose to study in Vietnam to open up new opportunities, meet new people, and explore different cultures,” said Phoutthasak Souknilan, pursuing a dentistry degree in Ho Chi Minh City.
Based on his experience, the education system in Vietnam stands out for its modernity and effective integration of technology.
While studying in Vietnam offers many benefits, Phoutthasak highlighted some challenges, especially for newcomers, such as adapting to a new language and education system.
“Many people feel discouraged at this stage, and some even decide to give up their studies,” he noted.
Donut Vongsa, a Lao student majoring in medicine at Pham Ngoc Thach University in Ho Chi Minh City, emphasized the enriching experience of making international connections during his studies. However, according to Donut, studying in Vietnam is not always easy.
“The study environment here is very difficult and demanding, which can sometimes lead to stress,” she said.
The Lao government, through various scholarship programs, currently supports thousands of students in Vietnam, contributing to their educational and professional growth. This initiative aims to equip Lao nationals with skills essential for their country’s socio-economic development upon their return.
Thanks to these scholarships, Lao students like Mick, Phoutthasak, Donut, and many others have secured opportunities to study in Vietnam.
According to local Lao media, Lao government scholarships currently support 3,417 students, with an additional 4,244 benefiting from exchange scholarships between bordering Lao and Vietnamese provinces. Moreover, 1,058 students are self-funded, and 141 receive funding from other sources.
This year, 476 students have completed their studies in Vietnam and will soon return to Laos. According to the Lao Ministry of Education and Sports, these graduates from Vietnamese universities have acquired valuable professional skills, securing stable jobs that contribute significantly to Laos’ governmental functions.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/07/18/over-10000-lao-students-study-in-vietnam-with-government-aid/
USAID Pledges USD 15 Million to Aid Persons with Disabilities in Laos
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is set to provide Laos with up to USD 15 million to improve the lives of persons with disabilities in Laos.
This initiative is part of the second phase of the Okard Project, which spans from 2024 to 2027 and focuses on helping persons with disabilities gain equal access to health and social services.
The new phase will build on the successes of Phase I, which took place from 2017 to 2023.
On 17 July, the Lao government signed two agreements with the World Education (WE) to promote inclusive development and improve rehabilitation services in Vientiane Capital, and Xieng Khouang, Savannakhet, and Sekong provinces.
The Okard project is set to address four critical areas: health, economic empowerment, stakeholder engagement, and community-based inclusive development.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Welfare Leepao Yang expressed gratitude for USAID’s additional support for the Okard Project. He emphasized the government’s efforts to support persons with disabilities through social policies and facilities that cater to their needs according to local socio-economic conditions.
Meanwhile, David Sintasath, USAID’s Acting Office Director of Health and Governance also acknowledged the growing partnership between the US and Laos. He noted that the agreement marks a significant step in supporting persons with disabilities through equal access to rights and social services.
Over the past six years, the project has helped over 29,000 people with disabilities improve their daily living and skills. It has also provided specialized assistive devices to more than 2,000 people, connected over 8,000 individuals with health and rehabilitation services, and trained over 5,000 service providers.
Despite this success, in 2020, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) revealed that Laos has over 160,000 individuals who have a disability. The rate is higher in remote areas and among various ethnic groups, with 3.33 percent in roadless rural areas.
UNFPA stated that people with disabilities over 10 have lower employment rates and higher unemployment compared to those without disabilities and that youth and women with disabilities are particularly excluded from education, vocational training, and the workforce.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/07/19/usaid-pledges-usd-15-million-to-aid-persons-with-disabilities-in-laos/
Laos to Raise VAT to 10 Percent on Digital Platforms
Starting 1 August, digital platforms like Google, Facebook, and Amazon will enforce a 10 percent value-added tax (VAT) on customers in Laos, following the country’s VAT increase from 7 percent.
The three major platforms have been notifying users about the upcoming changes. This VAT adjustment will affect various services involving customer purchases on these platforms.
Before the changes take effect, users are required to provide their Laos Tax Identification Number (TIN) to update their information. Once updated, the platform’s TIN will be reflected on their invoices.
The VAT increase, first announced in March, is part of broader efforts to enhance state budget revenue and support economic and social development.
The increase will also apply to a range of transactions, including imports, goods, general services, mineral imports and supply, and electricity usage.
For the past two years, Laos has maintained a VAT rate of 7 percent. However, given the country’s current economic challenges, international experts and organizations, such as the World Bank, recommended returning to a 10 percent VAT rate to prioritize tax collection and replenish the state budget.
After enduring economic turmoil for the past two years, Laos has implemented various measures to address these issues, but with limited success.
On 15 July, Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith directed the government to take decisive action to halt the economic challenges, particularly the soaring inflation rate and the ongoing depreciation of the Lao kip currency. The president recommended increasing foreign reserves, curbing non-essential imports to stabilize the economy, and urging debt collection and asset auctions to enhance financial integrity.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/07/19/laos-to-raise-vat-to-10-percent-on-digital-platforms/
Over 10,000 Lao Students Study in Vietnam with Government Aid
Vietnam has become a hub for higher education for more than 10,000 students from Laos, supported by government scholarships and other funding avenues.
The Lao Embassy in Vietnam shared these figures during a meeting on 12 July, reporting the growing trend of Lao nationals seeking educational opportunities across the border. Among the Lao students currently enrolled in Vietnamese universities, the majority are pursuing degrees in administration, public security, and defense.
Mick Phavongsa, a nursing student at Vinh University of Medicine in Nghe An Province, expressed optimism about her career prospects upon completing her studies
“I am currently awaiting my university completion certificate and plan to apply to a Vietnamese hospital in Vientiane as a nurse,” she said.
Many Lao students, like Mick, cite familial and cultural ties as influential factors in their decision to study in Vietnam. Proximity to home and familiarity with Vietnamese culture also contribute to their academic choices.
“I chose to study in Vietnam to open up new opportunities, meet new people, and explore different cultures,” said Phoutthasak Souknilan, pursuing a dentistry degree in Ho Chi Minh City.
Based on his experience, the education system in Vietnam stands out for its modernity and effective integration of technology.
While studying in Vietnam offers many benefits, Phoutthasak highlighted some challenges, especially for newcomers, such as adapting to a new language and education system.
“Many people feel discouraged at this stage, and some even decide to give up their studies,” he noted.
Donut Vongsa, a Lao student majoring in medicine at Pham Ngoc Thach University in Ho Chi Minh City, emphasized the enriching experience of making international connections during his studies. However, according to Donut, studying in Vietnam is not always easy.
“The study environment here is very difficult and demanding, which can sometimes lead to stress,” she said.
The Lao government, through various scholarship programs, currently supports thousands of students in Vietnam, contributing to their educational and professional growth. This initiative aims to equip Lao nationals with skills essential for their country’s socio-economic development upon their return.
Thanks to these scholarships, Lao students like Mick, Phoutthasak, Donut, and many others have secured opportunities to study in Vietnam.
According to local Lao media, Lao government scholarships currently support 3,417 students, with an additional 4,244 benefiting from exchange scholarships between bordering Lao and Vietnamese provinces. Moreover, 1,058 students are self-funded, and 141 receive funding from other sources.
This year, 476 students have completed their studies in Vietnam and will soon return to Laos. According to the Lao Ministry of Education and Sports, these graduates from Vietnamese universities have acquired valuable professional skills, securing stable jobs that contribute significantly to Laos’ governmental functions.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/07/18/over-10000-lao-students-study-in-vietnam-with-government-aid/
EU, ASEAN Team Up in Education to Address Global Challenges
In a landmark discussion hosted by the European Union (EU), ASEAN, and leading scholars from both regions convened to enhance cooperation in education and research, highlighting the transformative impact of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy on ASEAN. The dialogue focused on innovation, research collaboration, sustainable development, and the exchange of students and academics.
During the The Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to ASEAN, Sujiro Seam emphasized the importance of people-to-people connectivity and investment in education and research as key components of the ASEAN-EU Strategic Partnership. He noted that the Partners’ Dialogue celebrated the existing cooperation between the EU and ASEAN in education and research, and explored ways to develop further this collaboration within the framework of the Global Gateway Strategy, benefiting both regions and their populations.
The EU-funded Erasmus Program and Horizon Europe exemplify successful collaboration in higher education and research.
The Erasmus Program has benefited students, scholars, and universities in ASEAN through exchanges, postgraduate scholarships, and support for university partnerships.
Meanwhile, Horizon Europe, the world’s largest publicly funded multilateral research and innovation program, offers researchers and innovators outside Europe the opportunity to participate in EU-funded collaborative research and innovation projects. This program aims to address global challenges by fostering green, digital, healthy, and resilient societies.
Launched in 2021, the Global Gateway strategy aims to tackle global challenges such as climate change, health system improvement, and the enhancement of global supply chain competitiveness and security.
Between 2021 and 2027, the EU and its Member States, collectively known as Team Europe, have committed to mobilizing at least EUR 10 billion for sustainable and high-quality projects in the ASEAN region. This investment is tailored to meet the needs of partner countries and ensure lasting benefits for local communities.
Since 1977, the EU’s partnership with ASEAN has been built on shared values and common goals. In 2020, the EU and ASEAN elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership. They continue to cooperate in ensuring regional peace and security, building sustainable connectivity, promoting free and fair trade, and supporting sustainable development in ASEAN.
To commemorate 45 years of dialogue relations, the Delegation of the European Union to ASEAN, in partnership with the ASEAN Secretariat and bilateral EU Delegations to ASEAN Member States, organized a series of events throughout 2022. These included a comic strip competition, a virtual cooperation exhibition, a joint photo exhibition, and the ASEAN-EU Bike 45 Ride. The celebrations culminated in the first-ever EU-ASEAN Commemorative Summit at the Leaders’ level on 14 December, 2022, in Brussels.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/07/17/eu-asean-team-up-in-education-to-address-global-challenges/
European Union, ASEAN Boost Education, Research Ties through Global Gateway Strategy
In a landmark discussion hosted by the Ambassador of the European Union (EU), Sujiro Seam, the EU, ASEAN and leading scholars from both regions came together to enhance cooperation in education and research.
The Partners’ Dialogue focused on the transformative impact of the Global Gateway strategy in ASEAN, emphasizing innovation, research collaboration, sustainable development, and the exchange of students and academics between the two regions.
Launched in 2021, the Global Gateway strategy aims to tackle the most pressing global challenges, from fighting climate change to improving health systems and boosting the competitiveness and security of global supply chains. Between 2021 and 2027, the EU and its Member States, together as Team Europe, committed to mobilizing at least EUR 10 billion (USD 10.9 billion) of investments for sustainable and high-quality projects in the ASEAN region, taking into account the needs of partner countries and ensuring lasting benefits for local communities.
“People-to-people connectivity and investment in education and research are key components of the ASEAN-EU Strategic Partnership,” Sujiro Seam, EU Ambassador to ASEAN, said. “Today in our Partners’ Dialogue, we celebrated the EU-ASEAN cooperation on education and research and explored avenues to further develop this cooperation in the context of the EU Global Gateway Strategy, working with partners for the betterment of our regions and their people” he added.
The EU-funded Erasmus Program and Horizon Europe are just two examples of successful collaboration in the field of higher education and research. Students, scholars, and universities in ASEAN benefited from the Erasmus program through student and scholar exchanges, postgraduate scholarships, and support for university partnerships.
In the field of research, Horizon Europe is the world’s biggest publicly funded multilateral research and innovation program. It offers researchers and innovators outside Europe the opportunity to participate in EU-funded collaborative research and innovation actions. It aims to tackle global challenges, including building green, digital, healthy and resilient societies.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/07/17/european-union-asean-boost-education-research-ties-through-global-gateway-strategy/
Laos, VietJet Sign Air Transport Agreement, Creating Over 2,000 Jobs
The Ministry of Public Works and Transportation and VietJet Airline have agreed to enhance air transportation between Laos and Vietnam, which is expected to create up to 2,500 new jobs in the aviation sector.
The two sides signed an agreement on 11 July in Vientiane Capital, with VietJet set to collaborate with the Department of Civil Aviation of Laos on various aviation-related projects aimed at expanding air transport activities within Laos. The airline also plans to establish its Maintenance Repair Overhaul (MRO) facilities in Laos, training the new workforce to meet international aviation standards.
This project aims to provide affordable flight options and high-quality air services for both Lao nationals and international tourists. Additionally, it is expected to promote socio-economic development, trade, tourism connectivity, and cultural exchange between Laos and its regional neighbors.
Meanwhile, Laos’ Department of Civil Aviation will support these efforts by providing administrative, legal, and facility assistance and coordinating with other agencies to ensure the project’s successful execution.
This collaboration is part of a broader strategic cooperation between Vietnam and Laos, as outlined in their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Strategic Cooperation in Transport for the 2016–2025 period.
Vietnam is currently one of Laos’ largest investors and trading partners, with 255 investment projects totaling USD 5.5 billion. These projects, primarily in the transport, tourism, science, and technology sectors, promote trade exchanges, sustainable development, and shared prosperity for Laos, Vietnam, and the wider region.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/07/16/laos-vietjet-sign-air-transport-agreement-creating-over-2500-jobs/
Laos, Australia Collaborate to Support Non-Lao Speaking Students
In a significant step towards inclusive education, the Lao Research Institute for Education Science (RIES) under the Ministry of Education and Sports, in partnership with the Australian government, organized a “Spoken Lao Program (SLP)” stakeholder forum on 11 July in Vientiane to improve Lao language learning and teaching.
The forum celebrated the program’s success, reflected on the outcomes of supporting non-Lao-speaking students, and strategized future expansions.
According to Uthid Thipmany, the deputy director of RIES, the Lao speaking program, designed to strengthen Lao language skills for Grade 1 students, has shown positive outcomes since its initial pilot in 2019. In the 2023-2024 fiscal year, the program expanded to 21 districts with additional support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
During the trial phase, teaching was observed in 597 classrooms, with 1,424 teachers conducting weekly reflections, and 602 non-Lao speaking students participating in tests. Uthid reported that the students received Lao speaking lessons three times a week and improved their test scores by 20 percent.
Meanwhile, 94 percent of the teachers interviewed stated that these lessons significantly helped non-Lao speaking students learn the language faster and engage better in all subjects.
Uthid further highlighted the need for Lao speaking lessons to be available in every school where students require additional help with Lao language because it is not their main language at home. He also expressed optimism in continuing the collaboration to ensure all Grade 1 teachers receive the necessary training and resources for teaching Lao language lessons.
Vanessa Hegarty, First Secretary at the Australian Embassy, acknowledged Laos’ cultural diversity, noting that over 50 languages are spoken across the country. She highlighted that many children, especially in rural and remote areas, speak languages other than Lao when they start school, making the development of basic Lao language skills in primary school essential for their continued educational success.
The program is part of the Basic Education Quality and Access in Lao (BEQUAL) Project, led by the Lao government with support from the Australian government and USAID, focuses on improving learning outcomes for young people across the country, particularly those who are disadvantaged. It also emphasizes gender equality and inclusive education in all activities.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/07/15/laos-australia-collaborate-to-support-non-lao-speaking-students/
Thailand Welcomes Lao Tourists on New Vientiane-Bangkok Train Service
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) welcomed Lao tourists who arrived at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Station by the new trial train from Vientiane Capital to Bangkok, Thailand on 14 July.
The trial train is a project of the two Prime Ministers, Laos, Sonexay Siphandone and Thailand, Srettha Thavisin from last year of inauguration to boost the economy and tourism, as well as to strengthen a robust relationship between the two nations.
TAT Governor, Thapanee Kiatphaibool mentioned that the new train of Laos – Thailand will support Thailand’s goal to become the Hub of ASEAN along with boosting tourism and economic activities between the two countries, following the TAT’s plan to increase travel within ASEAN.
She also added that hoping to uplift Lao tourists to travel in Thailand as the preferred destination in order to enhance cross-border tourism from Laos.
TAT has set a goal of nearly 977,000 tourists from Laos and generating 36.96 billion Baht in tourism income by 2024.
The train operation service for Lao and Thai tourists will begin on 19 July The ticket can be booked by the mobile application via “D-Ticket” and at SRT Station. The train route started from Laos, Vientiane Train Station (Khamsavath) to Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Station.
According to state media, the train will leave Bangkok Central Station at 9:25 pm on July 19 and reach Khamsavath station in Vientiane at 9:05 am the next morning. The return trip departs Vientiane at 6:25 pm and arrives in Bangkok at 7:30 am the following day.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/07/15/thailand-welcomes-lao-tourists-on-new-vientiane-bangkok-train-service/
French Embassy Backs Eight Gender Equality Projects in Laos
The French Embassy is bolstering its commitment to gender equality in Laos by funding eight innovative civil society projects through the Equipe France Fund – Civil Society Organizations (FEF-OSC) program. Ambassador Siv-Leng Chhuor formalized the grant agreements with the selected Lao organizations at a ceremony held at the Residence of France.
This initiative marks the first phase of the 2024-2025 FEF-OSC program, aligning with France’s steadfast dedication to promoting women’s rights globally. The program will allocate over half a million euros to support approximately 18 projects focused on gender equality. Since 2010, the French Embassy has financed 71 projects in Laos, totaling nearly EUR 3 million (USD 3.2 million).
The eight chosen projects, which span six provinces, tackle various aspects of gender equality. These include combating gender-based violence, advancing women’s economic empowerment, and enhancing access to education, justice, and culture.
The Association for the Development and Promotion of Women’s Leadership, represented by Bouakham Sythavong, received a grant of LAK 328 million (USD 14,800) to implement a project aimed at ending violence against sex workers and improving their access to health services in Vientiane Capital.
Inthana Boupphasavanh, representing the Association for the Development of Women and Legal Education, signed an agreement for LAK 448 million (USD 20,260). ADWLE’s project focuses on supporting vulnerable women and children in obtaining free health services, improving responses to gender-based violence (GBV) survivors, and assisting women in protecting their legal rights through the official registration of marriages.
The Association for the Promotion and Preservation of Arts and Literature, represented by Soukphansa Phoouphasouk, received LAK 227 million (USD 10,270) to support artists and poets in creating artwork that reflects gender equality in Lao society.
Manivone Vorachak, Secretary General of the Cooperation for Development and Support to Local Knowledge Association secured LAK 500 million (USD 22,600) for a project in Phongsaly province aimed at the economic empowerment of young women and improved GBV prevention.
Strengthening entrepreneurship and leadership skills among women from ethnic minorities is the primary goal of the Foundation Assisting Poor People of Laos – Xieng Khouang Province Branch. Khankham Sayalath, the association’s director, signed the grant agreement for LAK 499 million (USD 22,577).
Soukaseum Bodhisan, President of the Namjai Community Association from Bokeo Province, signed a grant agreement for LAK 499 million (USD 22,577). This project aims to provide quality education to girls from ethnic minorities and protect them from violence, including early marriages.
Sengsavang, represented by Virith Khattignavong, signed a grant agreement for LAK 499 million. Their project focuses on the sustainable reintegration of survivors and women at risk of human trafficking and domestic violence in Savannakhet province.
Lastly, Viengpeth Phongchalern from Salavan province represented the Women’s Development Fund, receiving LAK 500 million (USD 22,600). This project focuses on developing a model gender equality village (MGV) and preventing domestic violence and early marriages.
The selection committee for these projects included representatives from AFD, GIZ, and UNDP. Grantees will have the opportunity to apply for a second phase of funding in early 2025, with the call for projects open to new applicants as well.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/07/11/french-embassy-backs-eight-gender-equality-projects-in-laos/
Laos, Singapore Strengthen Ties in Education, Clean Energy
Laos and Singapore have agreed to enhance collaboration on education and carbon credits, with two agreements signed on 9 July during Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone’s official trip to the country.
During his visit, Sonexay met with his Singaporean counterpart, Lawrence Wong, to discuss cooperation between their governments. Their talks focused on political, economic, trade, and investment sectors, with particular emphasis on clean energy and cross-border electricity trade involving Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore.
According to the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs, two-way trade between Laos and Singapore has reached USD 182.5 million this year, with Lao exports exceeding USD 96.3 million and imports over USD 86.1 million. Additionally, Singaporean businesses have invested in 83 projects across Laos, totaling USD 362 million.
Meanwhile, the two sides also pledged collaboration in renewable energy, rare-earth minerals, agriculture, health, and tourism. In regional affairs, the two prime ministers affirmed their commitment to strengthen ASEAN community building and support Laos as this year’s ASEAN chair.
The Lao PM expressed gratitude on behalf of Laos for Singapore’s assistance and support over the past years, particularly in human resource development and capacity building. He also congratulated PM Wong on his appointment and expressed readiness to elevate Laos-Singapore relations.
This visit marks Sonexay’s first official trip to Singapore since becoming prime minister in December 2022, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
During the visit, Sonexay also paid courtesy calls on President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/07/10/laos-singapore-strengthen-ties-in-education-clean-energy/