Lao craftsmen, technicians head to Asean skills contest
VIENTIANE: Laos is hoping for a strong performance at the 14th Asean Skills Competition this year, where they will showcase their skills and professionalism.
The competition aims to give visibility and importance to professional education as one of the tools of socio-economic transformation.
Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Welfare Phongsaysak Inthalath gave a press conference on Friday (Aug 15) to detail Laos' participation in the contest, which takes place in the Philippines from August 21-31.
Vice President of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Xaybandith Rasphone, was among those attending the gathering.
Laos' participation reflects the government's ongoing efforts to enhance technical and vocational skills in line with regional and international standards.
The Lao delegation includes 32 participants, comprising 10 competitors, 10 experts, seven delegation members, and five labour unit observers.
Of the total, five are women, reflecting the country's commitment to gender inclusion in the field of skills development.
The team will compete in five professional skill areas, including graphic design technology and web technologies.
Laos has participated in 12 previous Asean Skills Competitions. The nation achieved a notable victory at the 10th event in Hanoi, winning a silver medal in electrical Installation.
To date, Lao contestants have earned 24 Asean Skills Certificates, recognising their technical competence at the regional level.
The competition is seen as a critical platform to ensure Lao workers can compete effectively in the regional labour market.
'As Asean moves towards deeper economic integration, the recognition of skilled workers' qualifications across member countries becomes increasingly important,' Phongsaysak said.
'The Asean Skills Competition is not only a venue for showcasing talent but also a powerful tool to raise training standards and promote employment opportunities for our youth.'
The competition aims to promote cooperation among Asean member states in the field of vocational education and training, strengthen ties between the public and private sectors in skills development, provide a platform for young professionals to demonstrate their abilities and gain recognition, and link national skill development programmes to international standards
The 14th competition is expected to host hundreds of skilled workers from across South-East Asia, competing in a wide range of trade and technical fields.
The competition takes place every two years and is the biggest vocational education and skills event in the Asean region.
The competitors represent the best of their peers and are selected from skills competitions in Asean member countries and regions. - Vientiane Times/ANN
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