Getting to know our partners: The National University of Laos

I returned to Vientiane to attend a few meetings and start the first round of data collection for this project. Our meeting with the National University of Laos (NUOL) helps me to understand a few critical points about mining in Lao PDR.

Preliminary data from international agencies such as the Asian Development Bank, UNDP and Mekong River Commission have confirmed that robust growth has helped to nearly halve poverty in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). Investments in mining and hydropower in recent years have driven much of the growth of the economy. 

However, the economic transformation continues to pose challenges for the country. Continued structural transformation and economic diversification is needed to expand opportunities, provide jobs for a young population, and for growth to become more inclusive. At the same time, high economic growth will need improved natural resource and environmental management.

NUOL believe that this project will enhance the quality of life of women in the mining industry. As a higher education institution, NUOLaims to promote new knowledge and research for development. 

Founded in 1996, with departments brought in from other existing colleges, it is the only national university in the country. NUOL accepts top students from Laos with few international students. National University of Laos is cooperating with various international universities. In this project, NUOL will be one of the key partners working with the local community in Villabouly.