Lao PDR

UNDP News

Vientiane 17th January 2008

National Assembly Staff Begin Scholarships in Australia

Human resource development at the National Assembly marks an important milestone this week, with the arrival in Australia this week of three staff-members beginning an 18-month Masters in Public Administration at the University of Tasmania.

“We are proud and excited to be in Australia - it's a once in a life time opportunity, which we all intend to make the most of,” said Mr. Phetla Thanthavongsa , speaking by phone on behalf of Ms Nitkeo Khammy and Mr Pakeonexay Sithirajvongsa, the other two scholarship awardees.

The three students have been granted scholarships from the United Nations Development Programme as part of an ongoing capacity building project at the National Assembly, which is co-funded by the European Union. Their enrolment follows a year of intensive preparation in English language and study-skills at Vientiane College, also funded by UNDP.

In a brief ceremony before their departure, Vice-Chair of the National Assembly Cabinet, Mr Viseth Svengsuksa, wished the three staff-members the best of luck in their studies. He expressed appreciation to UNDP and the European Union for generous assistance to the National Assembly over recent years. He also thanked Vientiane College for mentoring the three students through the challenging preparatory study programme and facilitating contacts with overseas universities.

Human resource development and capacity building is a key priority for the Office of the National Assembly, according to Mr. Khamchanh Sotapaseuth, Director General of the Personnel Department and several staff-members have completed Masters and post-graduate certificates in Laos and abroad. However, “funding for such activities is always a challenge,” explained Mr Khamchanh. “We are always on the look out for additional support from local and international organizations,” he added.

For further information, contact the Press Office, National Assembly of Lao PDR. PO Box 662 . Tel +856 (0)21 413522