Laos Reviews National Human Resource Development Strategy for Digital, Green Economy

The Lao government is undertaking a review of its draft national resolution on human resource development, aiming to align with the country's future aspirations. The initiative was chaired by Mr. Thongsalith Mangnomek, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education and Sports, who also heads the National Committee for Human Resource Development. Key ministries, the Central Organization Committee, the National Institute of Politics and Public Administration, the Central Party Theoretical Committee, and other relevant agencies participated in the meeting, both in person and online. Mr. Thongsalith highlighted the significant progress in human resource development over the past three decades under the Party's leadership. He noted that the Human Assets Index (HAI) rose from 46.4 in 2003 to 75.30 in 2025, and the Human Development Index (HDI) increased from 0.405 in 1990 to 0.617 in 2023, establishing a crucial foundation for the country's graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status. Despite these achievements, persistent challenges were acknowledged, including the slow implementation of policies, the need for deeper educational reforms, outdated curricula, limited financial resources, inadequate incentives for teachers in remote areas, and workforce skills that lag behind technological advancements and labor market demands. The revised framework is intended to align with the Party's Third Political Program (2026 Edition), the Resolution of the 12th Party Congress, and the 10-Year National Socio-Economic Development Strategy (2026–2035). The overarching goal is to enhance national competitiveness, support regional and global integration, and foster the development of a self-reliant, digital, green, and sustainable economy. The government envisions that by 2055, the Lao workforce will possess strong political commitment, a high caliber of scientists and specialists, and living standards approaching those of high-income economies, with the Human Capital Index (HCI) reaching 0.61 or higher. Officials stated that the draft resolution was developed through extensive consultations by the National Committee for Human Resource Development in collaboration with relevant ministries and agencies. The document, currently in its 24th draft dated July 12, 2026, includes implementation measures such as nationwide dissemination, clearer decentralization of responsibilities, broader stakeholder participation, legal reforms, and the establishment of dedicated funding mechanisms to ensure effective execution. Laos, operating under a one-party system, aims to advance its economic development and improve the livelihoods of its citizens. The nation continues to prioritize its relationships with China and Vietnam while also engaging with the international community. This review of the human resource development strategy is part of the country's medium-to-long-term efforts to transition its economic structure and achieve sustainable growth.