Honouring teachers and inspiring communities to value education across Lao PDR
Across Lao PDR, a campaign is shining a spotlight on teachers and the life-changing power of education. Launched by the Ministry of Education and Sports with support from the Australian Government through the BEQUAL program, managed by Tetra Tech International Development, the initiative aims to inspire families and communities to see education as the key to a brighter future.
The campaign was developed to address key challenges in the education sector, including declining enrolments and the need to motivate and retain teachers. By sharing authentic stories of students, parents and teachers through a series of compelling videos, it aims to shift community perceptions and renew national pride in education as the foundation for Lao PDR’s future development.
A campaign launched on Teacher’s Day
In October, marking the 31st anniversary of Teacher’s Day, the Ministry of Education and Sports of Lao PDR (MoES) hosted an official launch event for the first two videos of the Education Promotion Campaign. More than 160 representatives from national and sub-national MoES departments, the National Assembly, teacher training colleges, universities, the Australian Embassy, media organisations, and development partners attended the hybrid event.
A partnership for progress
Vice Minister of Education and Sports, Dr Daravone Kittiphanh, said the campaign was developed with Australia’s support through BEQUAL to help shift mindsets about the value of education.
Many parents and students across our nation currently undervalue education. This campaign aims to change that perception by highlighting the critical role education and teachers play in our society
Dr Daravone Kittiphanh, Vice Minister of Education and Sports
Australia’s Deputy Ambassador, Benita Sommerville, said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to education reform.
“Australia is proud to support the Ministry’s priorities, not only in curriculum development and improving teaching quality, but also in shifting the way education is valued and understood across communities,” she said.
Whether we are supporting teachers or strengthening schools, our goal is the same: to make sure every child in Laos has the chance to complete a quality education.
Benita Sommerville, Australia’s Deputy Ambassador
Stories that inspire change
The campaign features four short films that tell stories of teachers’ dedication, students’ determination and the role parents and community can play to change the future of the young generation.
At the launch, MoES unveiled the first two – The 2 Paths and The Teacher’s Value. The 2 Paths contrasts the futures of two young people based on their education choices, showing how learning provides the skills and opportunities needed to build meaningful lives. The Teacher’s Value celebrates the passion and impact of teachers, highlighting their challenges and the vital role they play in shaping Laos’ next generation.
Watch ‘The Teacher’s Value’ video:
Two additional videos – one following a young girl determined to stay in school, and another focusing on a community working together to support education – are expected to be released later this year.
Teachers at the heart of national development
Dr Kittiphanh expressed gratitude to teachers across Laos for their commitment and dedication.
As Teacher’s Day approaches, I warmly express my gratitude to teachers and all educators whose dedication and commitment shape the future of Lao PDR.
Teachers are the backbone of our education system, and their teaching responsibility inspires hope and opportunity for generations to come.
Dr Daravone Kittiphanh, Vice Minister of Education and Sports
Ms Sommerville said teachers are truly at the heart of education.
Their dedication, passion and commitment inspire students daily, shaping not only individual futures but also the future of the nation.
That’s why Australia continues to support teacher retention through a strong focus on continuing professional development, helping teachers to stay engaged, confident and motivated. Strong teachers mean stronger schools and more students in classrooms.
Benita Sommerville, Australia’s Deputy Ambassador
Inspiring a national movement
Following the launch, the campaign videos have been broadcast nationwide on television, shared across social media and integrated into community outreach activities. The stories continue to resonate widely, inspiring families, educators and community leaders to champion education.
Dr Kittiphanh called on all stakeholders to share the campaign’s messages to reach as many communities as possible.
“The Ministry of Education and Sports, together with the Australian Embassy, calls upon all stakeholders to actively share these messages,” she said.
Ms Sommerville added: “Together, we can inspire a new generation to value education and build a brighter future for Laos.”
Tetra Tech’s continued support for education
The BEQUAL program is a long-term partnership between the Government of Lao PDR and the Australian Government, supporting reforms that improve education quality and access, particularly in remote and disadvantaged areas.
Through BEQUAL, Tetra Tech is proud to support MoES and the people of Lao PDR in building a stronger, more inclusive education system – one that celebrates teachers, empowers learners and transforms perceptions of education for generations to come.
Learn more about Tetra Tech’s work across the Asia–Pacific region: International Development Solutions – Tetra Tech International Development
Watch the ‘2 Paths’ Video: