KPL
Teachers across Lao PDR are the heart of the education system, often working in challenging environments to deliver quality learning.
(KPL) Teachers across Lao PDR are the heart of the education system, often working in challenging environments to deliver quality learning.
To ensure they can thrive, they need continuing professional development (CPD) support. That’s why the Ministry of Education and Sports, with support from the Australian Government through the BEQUAL programme, launched Internal Pedagogical Support (IPS) teams in 2023 in 30 districts across seven provinces to assist teachers with implementing the revised primary curriculum and strengthening their teaching practices.
Assoc. Prof. Ms. Vongdeuane Osay, Director General of the Department of Teacher Education, emphasised the importance of the IPS system: “Teachers are a key factor in determining student learning outcomes. To improve quality in education, we must invest in our teachers—not just through pre-service training, but throughout their careers. That is why the Ministry of Education and Sports, with the support of Australian Government, has established a high-quality, responsive CPD system. The IPS mechanism is a core part of this system. IPS staff are embedded in schools and school clusters to provide regular, practical, and contextual support to teachers. This initiative also directly contributes to the implementation of the Lifelong Learning Decree, which emphasises that all educators must have ongoing opportunities to strengthen their skills. With the right support, our teachers can transform classrooms and help every child reach their full potential.”
Ms. Vanessa Hegarty, First Secretary of the Australian Embassy, highlighted the broader impact of the IPS system: “Through the IPS system, the Ministry of Education and Sports and Australia are supporting primary teachers in disadvantaged and remote areas in 30 districts across seven provinces. In the current context of declining enrolments and teacher shortages this support is key to making a difference in teacher retention and teaching quality. Ultimately this will contribute to better learning outcomes for students. Australia strongly believes that better teaching and learning builds Lao PDR’s human capital and we are honoured to work closely with the Ministry of Education and Sports towards this goal.”
In the latest episode of the Role Model docuseries, the TV, radio, and newspaper teams from the Information Media Center (IMC) of the Research Institute for Educational Sciences (RIES) travel to Houayxay district, Bokeo province, to meet Ms Phonethip Bounvilay, a passionate grade four teacher and IPS team member. Ms Phonethip, who is from the Leu ethnic group, teaches in a remote school where all her students are from the Hmong community.
“I believe Continuing Professional Development is very important for teachers because it helps them apply skills and knowledge in the classroom,” Ms. Phonethip shares in the documentary. “When teachers have strong teaching skills, students benefit and learn more effectively.”
Since becoming an IPS provider in mid-2023, Ms. Phonethip has been supporting six teachers at her school. She provides tailored support to match each teacher’s needs, from lesson planning to improving the use of teaching materials and classroom delivery.
“I talk with teachers during breaks, observe their classes, and always start by highlighting their strengths before discussing areas for improvement,” she explains. “I plan my support in advance but also adapt when urgent issues arise.”
One of Ms. Phonethip’s key tools is co-teaching. She collaborates closely with teachers, demonstrating techniques and then observing as they apply them in class. “We plan the lesson together, I teach while the other teacher observes, then we switch roles. Afterward, we reflect and discuss what worked best.”
She also helps teachers navigate specific challenges, such as using assessment rubrics, by preparing examples, explaining clearly, and guiding practice through observation and feedback. She supports teachers regularly, typically once or twice a month, and more often when needed.
Ms. Phonethip uses a tablet provided to all IPS staff and target districts through the BEQUAL programme to access helpful resources like Teacher Development Videos and Teacher Support Pack modules. “I share links to relevant videos and materials, like how to support ethnic students or use body language techniques. These are practical tools teachers can use immediately.”
While the IPS system was new, Ms. Phonethip worked hard to build trust and confidence. “At first, I lacked confidence too, especially in using ICT tools. But with training and support, I’ve improved. Now, I continue learning through videos, materials, and exchanging ideas with other IPS providers through WhatsApp or video calls. If I face a new challenge, I ask the District Education and Sports Bureau or the Teacher Training College for guidance. They follow up several times per semester, both in-person and remotely.”
Her dedication is praised by the District Education and Sports Bureau (DESB), who noted improvements in teaching and student learning in the district since the IPS system’s introduction. Mr. Mayang Jounxiangyang, pedagogical advisor from the DESB shares “Teaching effectiveness has significantly improved. Students are more enthusiastic, more active, and better able to express themselves in class.”
Reflecting on her journey, Ms. Phonethip encourages fellow teachers: “Use the Teacher Guide more. It’s very useful. And never hesitate to ask for support. Together, we can improve education for our students.”
The inspiring story of Ms. Phonethip Bounvilay and the IPS initiative can be watched on Education and Sports TV on Lao Sat Channel 8, Khang Panya Lao, and the ວິດີໂອສໍາລັບການພັດທະນາຄູ Teacher Development Video YouTube Channel. The Role Model docuseries is led by the Ministry of Education and Sports with support from the Australian Government through the BEQUAL programme, which is committed to inclusive education and gender equality for all learners in the Lao PDR.
KPL
