Luxembourg's support for outcomes-based education and the internationalisation of study programmes

The National University of Laos (NUOL) is taking an important step towards strengthening the quality of higher education. From 9 to 11 February 2026, the Postgraduate Office hosted its first workshop on outcomes-based education (OBE) and the internationalisation of study programmes in Vientiane Capital. This event, supported by the Rule of law, access to justice, and good governance (ROLAG) programme, marks a key milestone in NUOL’s efforts to modernise its curriculum and align it with international academic standards.

The workshop opened with remarks from Associate Professor Dr Ounla SIVANPHENG, Vice President of NUOL, and Dr Somdeth KEOVONGSAK, Dean of the Faculty of Law and Political Science, who described the initiative as a catalyst for change, moving the focus from simply graduating students to preparing them to make a meaningful impact in society. Mr Thomas LAMMAR, chargé d’affaires of the Embassy of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in Lao PDR, described the workshop as a “forward-looking transformation” that will help students gain the skills and competencies needed in today’s global job market.

Through the workshop, 49 educators from all 12 NUOL faculties explored how to shift from traditional teaching to a student-centred, outcomes-focused approach. Based on ecological systems theory, OBE empowers institutions to respond to rapid changes driven by globalisation, Industry 4.0 and artificial intelligence. The workshop also highlighted strategies for internationalising curricula, sharing practical insights from Vietnam’s higher education experience.

At the closing session, Dr Somdeth KEOVONGSAK and Dr Reginald PASTRANA, Senior Sectoral Adviser of the ROLAG programme, emphasised the positive impact of these reforms. These include upgraded library and research infrastructure, advanced faculty training and regional recognition through ASEAN University Network-Quality Assurance certification, a testament to NUOL’s early adoption of OBE.

NUOL’s journey is more than a reform. It reflects a clear vision for future-ready graduates, globally competitive education and a stronger foundation for national progress.

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