Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR – On 19 February 2026, The 3rd National Project Steering Committee Meeting of the ASEAN Swiss TVET Initiative (ASTI) was successfully held at Crowne Plaza Hotel, Vientiane Capital.

The meeting brought together representatives from the Department of Technical and Vocational Education, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Helvetas Laos, and relevant stakeholders to review the progress of ASTI Phase I and discuss strategic directions for 2026.

Key highlights included the endorsement of the 2026 Yearly Plan of Operation and discussions on Lao PDR’s readiness for the potential Phase II. Participants emphasised the importance of strengthening work-based learning to enhance workforce skills and improve employability.

This important platform reaffirmed the strong partnership between the government, private sector, and development partners in advancing quality TVET and supporting sustainable socio-economic development in Lao PDR.