Mr. Vansay Tavinyan, Deputy Head of the Party Central Committee’s Propaganda and Training Committee

(KPL) Twenty-five journalists from across the Lao PDR gathered in Vientiane for a three-day workshop titled 'Digital Dialogue,' aimed at strengthening digital skills and equipping the media sector for the future."

Held from August 5–7, the training comes just ahead of Lao Mass Media and Publishing Day, which celebrates its 75th anniversary on August 13.

Journalists from both state and private media outlets, representing central and provincial regions, are taking part in the workshop.

Ms. Megan Jones, Australian Ambassador to Laos 

The event is jointly organized by the Lao Journalists’ Association, the Australian Embassy in Laos and ABC Australia, with funding from the Australian Government.

The opening session was attended by Mr. Vansay Tavinyan, Deputy Head of the Party Central Committee’s Propaganda and Training Board, Mr. Savankhone Razmountry, President of the Lao Journalists’ Association, Ms. Megan Jones, Australian Ambassador to Laos and Mr. Aaron Kearney, ABC International Development Director of Engagement and Programme Development.

In his remarks, Mr. Vansay expressed appreciation to the Australian Embassy for backing the initiative and enabling ABC to work closely with the Lao Journalists’ Association to deliver practical, forward-looking training.

Ambassador Megan Jones emphasized the importance of regional collaboration in addressing the digital challenges facing today’s media.

“We recognize the serious challenges media professionals in Laos, Australia, and beyond face—from tackling misinformation to adapting to AI and digital disruption,” she said.

“Australia is proud to stand alongside Lao journalists as they work to provide high-quality, trustworthy information to the public.”

Ambassador Jones also announced that Australia will support the upcoming 75th anniversary of Lao Mass Media and Publishing Day, further highlighting the growing ties between Australia and Laos in media development.

In recent years, Australia has backed various initiatives to build capacity in the Lao media sector, including media training during Laos’ ASEAN Chair year, professional exchanges and media study visits to Australia and forums connecting Lao journalists with Australian experts and media leaders.

By providing hands-on training and access to expert insights “Digital Dialogue” aims to help Lao journalists navigate a fast-changing media environment and keep pace with global digital trends.

KPL