Vice Minister of Education and Sports and Deputy Ambassador of Australia chaired the Steering Committee endorsing the 2 years extension plan.

The decision was endorsed at the BEQUAL Steering Committee meeting on 14 July 2026, co-chaired by Dr Daravone Kittiphanh, Vice Minister of Education and Sports and Ms Benita Sommerville, Deputy Ambassador of Australia. Around 70 participants attended the meeting, including Directors of key MoES departments, Vice-governors and Provincial Education and Sports Service Directors from all 18 provinces, and Directors of eight Teacher Training Colleges.

"The partnership between the Ministry of Education and Sports and Australia has made a real and lasting contribution to the quality of primary education in Lao PDR. We are deeply grateful for Australia’s long-term support, which has helped strengthen our education system and improve opportunities for children across the country, especially those in remote and disadvantaged areas. Education is the foundation of a strong and prosperous nation, and we look forward to continuing this important partnership to support Government of Lao PDR reforms and build a more inclusive and effective education system for all children," said Dr. Daravone.

Ms. Khamphad Sayalinkham presents the implementation of CPD

Ms Benita added "Australia is proud to stand alongside the Ministry of Education and Sports in support of quality education in Lao PDR. We know that foundational learning is essential for long-term social and economic development, and we believe that every child, including girls and boys who are vulnerable or disadvantaged, should have the chance to learn and succeed. The progress achieved through BEQUAL shows what strong partnership can deliver, and we look forward to continuing this work together."

Since its launch in 2015, BEQUAL has supported major progress in primary education reform across the Lao PDR. The program has helped introduce a modern, child-centred primary curriculum, develop Spoken Lao lessons for children who do not speak Lao as their first language, strengthen teacher training, and establish a sustainable, school-based Continuing Professional Development system for teachers. These achievements have contributed to stronger teaching practices and more regular professional support for teachers across the country.

Mr. Michael Currie, First Secretary of the Australian Embassy in Lao PDR presents DFAT Policy and Priorities for BEQUAL Extension.

Dr. Daravone commented “When teachers are better trained and better supported, they are able to respond more effectively to the needs of their students. In this way, BEQUAL’s work has helped improve classroom practice and student learning, especially for children in remote areas and those who face additional barriers to education.”

The extension of BEQUAL marks an important new phase for the program. Building on the strong systems already established, the additional two years will place greater emphasis on national ownership, local leadership, and the use of evidence to guide reform. Focus areas will include gender equality and women’s leadership, inclusive education, language development, climate resilience, and enhanced support for children with disabilities and those from non-Lao language backgrounds.

Directors of key MoES departments, 18 PESS, 8 TTC and Vice-Governors joined BEQUAL Steering Committee.

BEQUAL will give particular attention to transformative GEDSI outcomes. This will include targeted initiatives such as a Women in Leadership program for central MoES , as well as support on child protection, school-related gender-based violence, disability-inclusive education, and practical tools to help teachers identify and support learners with additional needs.

Another important feature of the extension is a stronger focus on evidence-informed change. BEQUAL’s research and learning work will help guide implementation and policy dialogue, ensuring that lessons from the program continue to inform education sector strategy implementation and improve quality across the system.

Dr Daravone noted “The extension comes at an important time for Lao PDR, as the Government begins implementation of the 10th National Socioeconomic Development Plan 2026–2030 and the Education, Science and Sports Sector Development Plan 2026–2030. BEQUAL’s priorities are closely aligned with these national plans, particularly in the areas of access, quality, inclusion, and system strengthening.”

Ms Benita concluded "The extension of BEQUAL reflects Australia’s commitment to supporting Lao PDR in building a strong, inclusive, and resilient education system. By strengthening foundational learning, we are helping to equip children and young people from Laos with the skills they need for the future and supporting the development of a more self-reliant and prosperous country."

As BEQUAL enters this extension phase, the Ministry of Education and Sports and the Government of Australia remain united in their shared commitment to ensuring that every child in Lao PDR can access quality education and reach their full potential.

KPL