Skills and rural employment
Lao People’s Democratic Republic validates new soft skills curriculum to boost rural employability
ILO’s Rural Employment Promotion (REP) project supports efforts by the Government of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to promote youth employability and workforce readiness through innovative and responsive training models.
30 June 2025
VIENTIANE, The Lao People’s Democratic Republic (ILO News) – The Lao People’s Democratic Republic has officially validated a new soft skills curriculum, aimed at enhancing youth employability and workforce readiness, particularly in rural areas.
Designed for youth, job seekers, informal workers and job changers, the Short-Term Soft Skills Training Curriculum was developed with support from the Rural Employment Promotion (REP) Project, implemented by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Lao Federation of Trade Unions.
The curriculum was shaped through a participatory approach involving technical working groups, line ministries, and private sector actors. It was unanimously endorsed at a workshop in Vientiane on 30 June 2025 and is now pending official approval by the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare.
In his opening remarks, Bounma Sitthisom, Director General of the Institute of Skills Development, underscored the importance of soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, time management and professional ethics.
“While our technical and vocational training aligns with national occupational standards, the integration of soft skills remains limited. This curriculum addresses a critical gap in preparing our workforce for the realities of Industry 4.0 and a rapidly evolving labour market,” said Sitthisom.
The REP project promotes rural job creation through skills development, market integration, and rural investment support.
Mohammad Khairul Islam, Project Manager of the REP Project, reaffirmed ILO’s commitment to promoting decent work and inclusive growth in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic: “This event marks a milestone in strengthening the country’s skills ecosystem and supporting inclusive labour market outcomes.”
“Soft skills are essential for connecting rural workers to better jobs and more resilient livelihoods. This curriculum reflects the REP Project’s broader goal to unlock rural potential through targeted, practical interventions,” he added.
