(KPL) As part of a joint initiative to promote youth empowerment and skills development, representatives from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Ministry of Education and Sports' Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Department recently visited the Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn & Suites Vientiane.

The visit focused on young trainees enrolled in on-the-job training programs in culinary arts, baking, and desserts, showcasing the value of public-private partnerships in creating opportunities for Lao youth.

The visit underscored the importance of empowering youth, particularly young women, to gain practical skills, build confidence, and access meaningful employment opportunities. Delegates engaged with trainees, observed their work in professional kitchens, and discussed next steps to enhance cross-sector collaboration.

“For the students of Pakpasak TVET College, this internship opportunity at Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn is more than just training; it is a gateway to mastering professional skills aligned with global standards in the hospitality sector," said Mr. Bakhtiyor Kadyrov, UNFPA Representative in the Lao PDR. “With 60% of the population under the age of 25, the Lao PDR is in a unique demographic window of opportunity. We must equip youth not just with skills, but with purpose, pride, and agency.”

The visit also highlighted the potential for the private sector to play a larger role in scaling up youth training initiatives and fostering inclusive growth. Deputy Director General of TVET Department, Ministry of Education and Sports, Mr. Tingkham Sulintha, stated, “When young people are empowered with knowledge and practical skills, they become changemakers, not just for their families, but for the entire country. This initiative is a bridge to resilience, confidence, and long-term national development.”

Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn & Suites Vientiane have opened their kitchens and mentorship programs to seven trainees, offering them a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the hospitality industry. “At Crowne Plaza, we believe our role extends beyond hospitality—we are also a platform for empowerment,” said Mr. Murali Viswanathan, Cluster General Manager for Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn & Suites Vientiane. “Watching these young trainees grow and learn has been inspiring. We are proud to contribute to shaping a more inclusive workforce in the Lao PDR.”

Trainees, like Phonepaseuth Thor and Khamla Duangdee, expressed gratitude for the experience, highlighting how their internships had a transformative impact both personally and professionally.

Looking ahead, UNFPA, MoES, and Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn plan to expand the initiative, reaching more youth, especially those from vulnerable and rural backgrounds. Future efforts will also integrate life skills, sexual and reproductive health education, and gender equality into vocational programs, ensuring no young person is left behind in the Lao PDR’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable development.

KPL