Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Review Method: Peer Reviewed
Abstract: Laos PDR is one of the poorest countries in the Southeast Asian region with a GDP per capita of only US$500, and two-third of its 6 million population living on less than US$2 per day. In order to promote its economy, the Government of Laos introduced a new economic industrial policy called the New Economic Mechanism in 1986. Since then, its economy has transformed from a centrally planned to a market oriented economy. In addition, its industrial sector has grown steadily especially the garment industry, which currently holds the largest export share.

This study focuses on the garment industry and examines how its skills development is carried out. The study was conducted in Vientiane, Capital City of Laos, PDR, and interviews were conducted to government officers, specialists in development organizations such as UNIDO and JICA, and managers in 21 local garment factories.

The study found that the garment industry has the potential to promote Laos’ economic growth; however, the sector does not receive much support from the government. The skills development is primarily conducted by each garment factory and there are issues of shortage of skilled workers and low repetition of workers.

Publication Type: Traditional Presentation
Abstract: The Wildlife Conservation Society collaborates with the Lao national radio outreach team to educate and entertain rural and urban Lao people about threats facing the country’s internationally significant biodiversity. Evaluations reveal that rural people are interested in the weekly radio programs highlighting the importance of natural resources.