Mr. Gabriel acknowledged the importance of the visit, stating that "This mission not only allows me to evaluate the progress of the VTESS project, but also to comprehend the challenges we face. It is an excellent platform to align our objectives for future collaborations."
After the meeting, the SDC Team had the opportunity to interact with students specialising in various fields such as electric installation, construction, mechanics, and mushroom production. Part of their tour included meeting with the graduated students on the Food processing, Ms. Pien and Ms. Sida, who were hired at the Namkat Yorla Pa Resort after completing their course.
"I opted for Food Processing, and currently I am employed as a chef assistant. My ultimate ambition is to work as a head chef someday, as I am extremely passionate about this profession," shared Ms. Pan during the interaction. The field visit provided invaluable insight into students' changing perceptions and future aspirations since participating in the VTESS project.
Reflecting on the visit, Mr. Jean expressed his gratitude towards the project initiative and the impact it has had on the students. "This project means a lot to the students, IVETC, and Swisscontact. The results are profound and substantial. We express our sincere gratitude to the Swiss government for their generous investment. Wishing the students success, good health, and hope to inspire their peers to take advantage of this opportunity", he concluded.
VTESS is a project of the Government of the Lao PDR and the Government of Switzerland through the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. It is implemented by the Ministry of Education and Sports, the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare and the consortium of Swisscontact and the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts.