Laos Launches Teacher Self-Assessment Tool to Enhance Teaching Quality

The Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) of the Lao PDR, in collaboration with the Australian Embassy, has launched the Teacher Self-Assessment (TSA) tool to enhance the quality of primary education nationwide. The launch marks a significant milestone in sustained efforts to strengthen teacher professional development and improve the quality of primary education across the country. The event brought together key stakeholders from central and subnational levels, including various departments within MoES, all eight Teacher Training Colleges (TTCs), and development partners. The primary objective of the TSA tool is to empower teachers to reflect on their teaching practices, strengthen their skills, and better respond to the evolving needs of their students. Dr. Lamphoune Laungxay, from MoES, stated, "The Teacher Self-Assessment tool is an important step forward in supporting our teachers to reflect on their practice, strengthen their skills and better respond to the needs of students. By linking the TSA with the Primary Teaching Standards, we are building a stronger system that supports teaching quality and contributes to better learning outcomes for all children. I would like to express our sincere appreciation to Australia for its long-standing partnership and continued technical and financial support through BEQUAL, which has played an important role in helping MoES develop this tool." The TSA tool was initially developed in 2023 alongside the Primary Teaching Standards with support from Australia through the BEQUAL program. It underwent a pilot phase in three districts with 30 teachers, leading to revisions based on feedback. Subsequently, it was scaled up during the 2025–2026 school year to all Internal Pedagogical Support staff in 1124 schools, gathering valuable field insights. Ms. Kate Goodfruit from the Australian Embassy commented, "This launch reflects the strong collaboration between MoES and Australia through BEQUAL, as well as across departments and Teacher Training Colleges. Together, we share a commitment to strengthening the foundations of basic education. By helping teachers identify their learning needs and improve their practice, the TSA will support more effective teaching in the classroom. In turn, better teaching leads to stronger student engagement, deeper learning and improved learning outcomes, helping young people develop the skills and confidence they need for the future." The introduction of the TSA tool is seen as a crucial step in strengthening the teacher development system in Laos. It aims to ensure that teacher learning is targeted, practical, and directly connected to classroom realities. Pathways for integrating the tool into existing systems such as Continuing Professional Development, appraisals, academic title awards, and the Fundamental Quality Standards (FQS) quality assurance system are also being explored. Dr. Lamphoune concluded, "I would like to thank all departments, Teacher Training Colleges, teachers and development partners who have contributed to the development of this tool. Together, we are taking an important step toward stronger teaching, better support for teachers, and improved learning for our students. With the TSA now ready for launch, our task is to work together to support its effective use across the system. If we can help teachers grow in confidence and skill, we will also help our students learn better and build a stronger future for the Lao PDR." Ms. Goodfruit added, "Supporting teachers is one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen education. Through BEQUAL, Australia is proud to work alongside MoES in this shared effort to build a workforce of confident, capable teachers who can deliver quality learning for every child. This is an investment not only in schools, but in the future skills and capabilities of the Lao PDR." Information Source: KPL Laos News