Publication summary
The Laos Australia Institute Phase 3 (LAI 3) is Australia’s human resource development program in the Lao PDR which implements Australia Awards Scholarships, short course training, targeted leadership capacity building, and alumni engagement ensuring future leaders, including women and marginalised groups, are equipped to address existing and emerging development challenges.
The independent review of LAI 3 commissioned by DFAT in 2024 to assess the progress for the LAI over the first 3.5 years to provide insights and adjustments for the remaining delivery period and development of recommendations for the design of the next phase of the program. This report presents findings of the independent review of LAI 3. The program was assessed against relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, monitoring and evaluation framework and cross-cutting themes such as gender equality, disability and social inclusion and climate change.
The review adopted a dual-pathway methodology, combining a review of LAI 3 activities with a forward-looking approach to inform the design of the new HRD program. The evaluation tools included document review, stakeholder interviews, a survey of Laos-Australia alumni, and structured data analysis.
Overall, the Independent Review of LAI 3 found that LAI 3 is a valuable component of Australia’s human resource development (HRD) engagement with Laos. The program advances shared priorities, including inclusive growth, HRD, education, skills development, and governance. Through strong alumni networks and institutional partnerships, it enhances Australia’s relationship with Laos as a trusted and respected development partner.
The review provided useful recommendations for program adjustments. The Australian Government endorsed most review recommendations and accepted that there is value to continue the program provided key areas for improvement identified in the report are addressed. The management response outlines actions in response to LAI review recommendations.