LuxDev collaborates with SAO to develop a future-oriented 2026–2030 strategic plan

As part of its commitment to strengthening governance and public financial accountability in Lao PDR, LuxDev, through the Rule of law, access to justice, and good governance (ROLAG) programme, is supporting the State Audit Organisation (SAO) in the development of its 10th Five-Year Strategic Development Plan (2026–2030).

A strategic planning workshop was held from 10 to 12 June 2025 in Savannakhet Province, bringing together 38 staff from SAO’s central and provincial offices. The workshop aimed to develop a solid strategic plan for SAO that incorporated institutional vision and mission statements and results-driven methods alongside flexible and participatory planning approaches.

The workshop was led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phosy CHANHMING, director general of the Institute of Research and Training, alongside Mrs. Vongseng PANYAPHIM, deputy director general of the Department of International Cooperation, and Dr. Reginald PASTRANA, senior sectoral adviser of the ROLAG programme. 

The highlight of the workshop was Dr. PASTRANA’s presentation on international best practices and methods for strategic plan development in state audit institutions. Drawing from his extensive experience in governance and public sector reforms, Dr PASTRANA outlined globally recognised standards and demonstrated how they could be adapted to the governance and institutional requirements of Lao PDR.

His session emphasised the fundamental components of an effective strategic framework, which includes organisational priority definition and performance monitoring enhancement with results-based accountability.

The SAO plans to finalise and approve its 2026–2030 Strategic Development Plan by October 2025. The plan will guide future development through transparency and accountability, and sound financial management. 

The ROLAG programme is financed by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and jointly implemented by the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Education and Sports, LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency, ILSTA and the University of Luxembourg.