Exploring Higher Education in Laos through Recognition Mechanisms: Key Takeaways from the 3rd CALOHEA National Meeting at National University of Laos (NUOL)

After its success in Thailand in March 2023, the CALOHEA National Meeting continued its journey to Vientiane at the 3^rd CALOHEA National Meeting at National University of Laos (NUOL). The Meeting was organized through hybrid format on 5 - 6 April 2023 at Laos - Japan Institute, Dong Dok Campus, National University of Laos.

The event was a success, with over 180 participants from 12 institutions, including the Ministry of Education and Sport of Lao PDR, gathered to discuss the future of higher education in Laos. The event was organized through a hybrid format, which allowed participants to join either in-person or online.

Dr. Robert Wagenaar, Director of International Tuning Academy, CALOHEA Project Coordinator and Prof. Dr. Houngphet Chanthavong, Vice-president of National University of Laos

During the event, the CALOHEA project presented a keynote speech on the importance of recognition and internationalization of higher education in the ASEAN region. Representatives from government agencies shared their views on how internationalization can contribute to the growth of the country's economy, while industry representatives highlighted the role of higher education in meeting industry demands.

Participant in the 3^rd CALOHEA National Meeting at National University of Laos

The event also provided an opportunity for participants to share their experiences and discuss recognition mechanisms in the Lao PDR Higher Education System. University leaders shared their views and experiences on the integration of internationalization into Laos Higher Education. Good practices of internationalization from institutions in Lao PDR were also showcased, providing a platform for participants to learn and share their experiences.

Students in the second day workshop session (Teacher Education)

On the second day, the Workshop Teacher Education Subject Area Group and the Civil Engineering Subject Area Group provided valuable feedback on various aspects of the curriculum, including student workload and the use of Authentic Assessment. The participants also identified Authentic Assessment as a more effective approach to evaluate student learning than traditional testing methods. However, they expressed concerns about the lack of understanding of Authentic Assessment among educators, highlighting the need for training and awareness-raising. The feedback received from the two subject area groups was positive and constructive, and their insights will help shape the curriculum's future direction.

In conclusion, the 3rd CALOHEA National Meeting at the National University of Laos was a successful event that brought together academic staff, students, and representatives to discuss the future of higher education in Laos. The event provided a platform to share good practices and experiences of recognition mechanisms, internationalization, and curriculum development, which will help shape the future direction of higher education in the region. The feedback from the two subject area groups on curriculum development was valuable and constructive, and the event highlighted the importance of training and awareness-raising for educators to implement Authentic Assessment effectively.

Staff from CALOHEA Project Consortium and National University of Laos

CALOHEA will continue its roadshow in Cambodia at the 4th CALOHEA National Meeting at Institute of Technology of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, on 11 - 12 May 2022. For those interested in attending the Meeting, feel free to register at https://forms.gle/xnepJE2f7Ewjwnap8. For additional information, visit https://calohea.org or subscribe to AUN E-newsletter to never miss an update from CALOHEA!

The recorded video of the Meeting can be accessed via AUN Secretariat’s Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/osSUQPOR78g