KUALA LUMPUR - Laos has launched a nationwide campaign to encourage more young people to pursue Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in line with the country’s increasing demand for skilled workers.
The initiative is being led by the Ministry of Education and Sports under the Skills for Tourism, Agriculture and Forestry (STAF) Programme.
The campaign officially began on May 15 at Vientiane Secondary School in Vientiane.
Authorities plan to expand the programme to at least nine provinces between 2026 and 2027, with upcoming activities scheduled in Bolikhamxay and Vientiane provinces.
The ministry aims to reach about 150,000 people across the country through the campaign.
A key focus of the initiative is to improve access to vocational education for young women and disadvantaged groups to ensure wider participation in skilled employment opportunities.
To support the effort, the ministry has also introduced the TVET Development Fund to expand vocational education and training opportunities for disadvantaged and low-income communities.
The fund was officially launched during a management board meeting in Vientiane on April 7, where officials discussed plans to strengthen vocational education nationwide.
Deputy Minister of Education and Sports Dalavone Kittiphan said the fund would play an important role in improving vocational education and workforce development in Laos.
She said the fund would support vocational institutions in improving teaching and learning, strengthen teacher training and professional development, and encourage closer cooperation between schools and labour sectors through practical training programmes.