Basic Education in Lao People’s Democratic Republic

This chapter addresses Lao PDR’s progress in developing its basic education sector. There have been many areas of improvement in the sector over the past two decades. Enrolment has increased; the gender gap in access to education has improved, approaches to teaching and learning are modernizing, acceleration of the use of digital technologies in the classroom, and future teachers are being better prepared for the profession. The Government plays a leading role in teaching and learning reforms. It is currently rolling out a new primary curriculum, establishing teacher continuous professional development, and using digital tools to support teaching and learning. These initiatives will have a significant impact on the sector’s future. However, serious challenges remain, mainly concerning access and equity, efficiency and quality, school autonomy and accountability, integrating online resources with teaching and learning, and improving teaching quality through professional development.