Nong and Sepon, Laos (November 7, 2023) – Marking the culmination of a 13-year journey, the final event of the income-generation project for women in remote areas of Laos took place today. The closing ceremony, held in collaboration with the Department of Non-Formal Education (DNFE), PESS in Savannakhet, and local partners, brought together key stakeholders to celebrate achievements, share lessons learned, and chart a course for sustainable development.
Presided over by Mr. Sengaloun Boutsady, Deputy General Director of DNFE, and Mr. Christoph Jost, Director of DVV International, the event was a tapestry of cultural performances, product exhibitions, and insightful presentations. Students captivated the audience with their vibrant dances, while the CLCs from Nong and Sepon districts proudly displayed their handcrafted goods, sharing their stories of empowerment through entrepreneurship.
The event delved into the project's impact, showcasing how it:
- Equipped women with marketable skills: Participants reported increased confidence, newfound abilities, and the joy of generating income to support their families.
- Fostered a culture of entrepreneurship: From pre-orders to market access, the project bridged the gap between production and sales, creating sustainable livelihoods.
- Ignited a passion for education: Recognizing the transformative power of learning, villagers are now actively encouraging their children to pursue education.
Open discussions and valuable feedback highlighted the project's strengths and areas for improvement. The Deputy Director of DNFE emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in ensuring the project's legacy lives on.
The event concluded with a sense of shared purpose and a commitment to building upon the project's foundation. The possibility of implementing follow-up activities for specific participants was warmly welcomed, ensuring continued support for their entrepreneurial endeavors.
A testament to the transformative power of education and collaboration, this project has empowered women in Nong and Sepon to become agents of change in their own lives and communities. As we celebrate its conclusion, we look forward to witnessing the ripple effect of their success for years to come.