Head of Office of the Supreme People’s Prosecutor of the Lao PDR, Mr Xaysana Khotphouthone, and his officials visit an exhibition in Vientiane to mark the 69th anniversary of Lao Women’s Union Day, organised by the Women’s Union of the People’s Prosecutor of the Lao PDR and other entities.  --Photo Pathetlao

Participants gather at the close of a KOICA global training programme titled Capacity Building on Railway System Management in Laos, which took place from June 30-July 13. The Korea Railroad Corporation organised courses for 15 officials from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, currently serving in the Department of Railways at both the central and provincial levels, as well as the Lao National Railway Enterprise. The training programme comprises three phases starting from 2023, with the recently completed session marking the second phase. Unlike the first year’s online course, which focused on analysing Korea’s current railway operations and technology, this year’s programme included a visit to Korea. Participants learned about Korean railway transport policies and operational systems, collaborating with Korean railway experts to develop a detailed action plan. The group visited key railway facilities including Seoul Metropolitan Railway Station and the Railway Traffic Control Centre. They also toured the rolling stock maintenance depot and high-speed track maintenance office. The Training Institute delivered comprehensive sessions on sustainable railway system management, covering topics such as Human Resource Development Strategy and Carbon Neutrality in Railways. The KOICA Office in Laos continues to support Lao government officials from various ministries to enhance their capacity to manage operational challenges within their organisations. Through the global fellowship programme CIAT (Capacity Improvement and Advancement for Tomorrow), KOICA provides lectures developed by specialised Korean institutions. The programme aims to foster sustainable development in both Laos and Korea, aligning with the shared goal of mutual advancement.