VIENTIANE CAPITAL, U.S. Embassy in Laos --
Continuing the United States’ support to the Lao PDR in strengthening academic institutions, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Ministry of Education and Sport (MOES) launched the new “Study and Modeling of Management Capacity and System Strengthening Project” at a ceremony in Vientiane on October 21, 2021.

Vice Minister of Education and Sports Dr. Sourioudong Sundara and United States Ambassador to Lao PDR Dr. Peter M. Haymond witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) marking the start of the program, funded by USAID and implemented by Research Triangle Institute (RTI) International, in partnership with the National University of Laos. The project will partner with academic institutions, teachers and students, and research groups to strengthen their management, administrative, and technical abilities to more effectively contribute to the socio-economic development of Lao PDR.

“The new program demonstrates our strong commitment and expanding relationship under the U.S.- Lao Comprehensive Partnership,” said Ambassador Haymond. “This year marks the 5th anniversary of the Partnership, and the United States is proud to partner with Lao PDR in helping local academic institutions to contribute more effectively to Lao PDR’s socio-economic development goals.”

The MOU was signed by Dr. Oudom Phonekhampheng, President of the National University of Laos (NUOL) and Mr. Sengthong Phothisane, Project Manager from RTI and witnessed by representatives from MOES, NUOL, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the U.S. Embassy.

Since the inception of the U.S. – Lao Comprehensive Partnership in 2016, USAID has increased its assistance to support the Government of Laos to improve the climate for investment and trade, enhance the competitiveness of Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs), strengthen governance and the rule of law, promote inclusive education and advance health and education outcomes for the Lao people. All of this assistance encourages sustainable and inclusive development, market-driven growth, supports economic independence and integration with ASEAN, and helps Lao PDR achieve its national development goals.