Ms. Vanmany Vannasy and Mr. Souksakhone Sengsouliya have recently achieved a significant academic milestone, successfully earning their PhD degrees in Lifelong Learning and Adult Education from the University of Cologne, Germany, in 2025. Their achievement marks a crucial step in the ongoing cooperation between the Regional Office of DVV International in Laos and the Lao government through the Ministry of Education and Sports.
DVV International has been supporting the two scholars in pursuing their PhD research in Germany since the year 2019 to enhance human resource development for the non-formal sector and the promotion of lifelong learning in Lao PDR. Vanmany Vannasy and Souksakhone Sengsouliya undertook a research-based program with Prof. Dr. Michael Schemmann at the Department of Education and Social Science, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Cologne. Their research focuses on critical aspects of lifelong learning in different educational contexts.
Vanmany Vannasy’s dissertation deals with “Lifelong Learning Through Workplace Learning: A University Perspective” providing a theoretical overview particularly in academic institutions and examines empirical data to identify key factors that influence its realization. Souksakhone Sengsouliya’s research addresses “Dropout Trends among Laotian Hmong Minority Lifelong Learners in Adult Education”. His study explores various theoretical perspectives on the dropout phenomenon and employs a case study approach to analyze empirical data on the dropout decisions of Hmong students in higher education. Beyond contributing to existing research, his work proposes practical solutions for recruiting and retaining minority learners, a group often regarded as hard-to-reach and vulnerable.
The achievements of Ms. Vanmany Vannasy and Mr. Souksakhone Sengsouliya do not only reflect personal dedication and academic excellence but also represent a step forward in advancing adult education in Lao PDR. It is hoped that their research inspires further initiatives to support the vision of DVV International to provide lifelong learning opportunities for all.