Joint Monitoring Visit by SDC and Government Partners to VTESS Project Activities in Oudomxay, Khammuane, and Saravan Provinces

The joint monitoring mission aimed to assess project implementation progress and obtain direct insights into field-level activities. The visits took place in Oudomxay Province from 21 to 23 January 2026, followed by visits to Khammuane and Saravan Provinces from 01 to 07 February 2026.

Key Objectives of the Visits

The monitoring visits aimed to:

• Review progress and achievements of VTESS activities
• Observe project implementation across selected provinces and training locations
• Discuss priorities for 2026 and the remaining project period
• Gather perspectives from provincial and district authorities on project implementation

Field Activities and Engagement

Across the three provinces, the delegation:

• Met with provincial and district authorities, including education and labour offices
• Visited TVET and IVET institutions and observed training courses in areas such as air conditioner repair, motorbike repair, beauty services, tailoring, e-bike maintenance, and other employment-oriented skills
• Observed ESS coaching cycle sessions and discussed training delivery approaches
• Met with VTESS beneficiaries, including trainees, graduates, and seed money recipients, to learn about their skills development and employment pathways
• Conducted consultations with local authorities to better understand local needs and implementation contexts

Solar Equipment Handover in Oudomxay and Saravan Provinces

Solar equipment handover ceremonies were conducted on 23 January 2026 in Oudomxay Province and on 06 February 2026 in Saravan Province as part of the VTESS project’s joint monitoring visits.

The provided equipment is intended to support the implementation of a new course and to enhance the overall quality of training. It will be installed and integrated into the practical workshops of the Electricity Faculty of IVET schools, serving as a valuable resource for hands-on learning. The equipment aims to strengthen technical training opportunities in renewable energy.

In the longer term, the solar installation course is expected to be incorporated either as part of an existing programme or offered as a standalone course within the Electricity Faculty, contributing to expanded and practice-oriented training options for students.

Strengthening Coordination and Implementation

Field visits and consultations with local stakeholders are essential to ensure alignment with national priorities and effective project implementation. The joint monitoring visits provided a platform for constructive exchange and shared understanding among partners.

The VTESS project extends its sincere appreciation to  MoFA, MoES, MoLSW, and SDC as well as provincial and district authorities, training institutions, and beneficiaries for their great cooperation and continued collaboration throughout the visits.