The first-ever English Language Teaching and Job Readiness Forum held at Muong Thanh Luxury Vientiane Hotel on May 30 brought together 120 educators from Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Hosted by the National University of Laos (NUOL) in collaboration with the US Embassy in Laos, the event aimed to improve the English learning curriculum for Lao students and better prepare them for the 21st-century workplace.

The forum began with traditional performances by NUOL students, followed by an opening speech from US Chargé d’Affaires to Laos, Michelle Outlaw. She emphasized the importance of English in the modern workplace and the challenges students face in applying their English skills professionally. Outlaw expressed optimism about technological advancements opening new opportunities for educators and learners.

The event facilitated the exchange of ideas among educators from the three countries and promoted international cooperation in education. Jerrold J. Frank, the Regional English Language Officer from the US Embassy in Hanoi, Vietnam, highlighted the forum's role in promoting English language learning across Southeast Asia.

Frank praised the forum’s organization and the enthusiasm of the participants. He noted the support from the US Embassy, the American Center, and NUOL, emphasizing the collaborative effort in organizing the event. Gregory Aurit, Public Affairs Officer at the US Embassy in Laos, discussed the American Center’s role in providing free English courses and a conducive environment for English learning.

The forum underscored the critical role of English in the global workplace and fostered international cooperation to enhance English education in Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia.