The Non-Formal Education Development Center (NFEDC) hosted a workshop on strategy planning and revision of the lessons in Ed App, part of Non-Formal Education (NFE), from 4-7 June 2024, in Vangvieng District, Vientiane Province. The workshop was presided over by Mr. Sisana Bouppha, General Director of Department of Nonformal Education; Mr Christoph Jost, Director of DVV International; and Mrs Khambay, General Director of NFEDC. The workshop included representatives from DNFE, NFEDC, the Northen Regional Non-Formal Education Center (NRNFEC), the South Regional Non-Formal Education Center (SRNFEC), Vientiane Capital PESS & NFE, and other relevant departments within the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES). Additionally, representatives from the Research Institution of Education and Sport, IVET, ICT, and the Department of General Education participated, along with DVV International and Ed App experts.
The workshop aimed to achieve several key objectives. First, it introduced the Ed App to stakeholders and facilitated discussions on its potential role in the NFE Equivalency Program. Participants also reviewed and provided feedback on the content of the Ed App, specifically the 10 subjects offered for Grade 12 equivalency. Finally, the workshop aimed to define a clear action plan for the future development and implementation of the Ed App.
The workshop was a resounding success, receiving positive feedback from participants. They recognized the Ed App's potential and advocated for piloting it in provinces with a high number of NFE learners. A clear action plan emerged from the discussions:
- Develop an Ed App handbook
- Train NFEDC teachers on the Ed App
- Train Provincial NFE Teachers and Students on the Ed App (piloting)
- Monitoring and follow-up procedures (by FESS and online meetings with NFEDC)
- Conduct a pilot program evaluation of the Ed App
- Present the results to DNFE and MoES and improve the Ed App based on the findings
- Agreement for official approval for the use of the Ed App in NFE system
This workshop marks a significant step forward in utilizing technology to enhance Non-Formal Education in Laos. The Ed App has the potential to improve access to education and empower learners by providing a flexible and engaging learning platform.