Thought leadership series

Education enrolment in Laos has expanded significantly since 1994. However, the quality of education is still limited in scope and availability, and is very much concentrated in the capital city, Vientiane. The Laotian government has begun to reform the educational system with the goal of linking educational development more closely to the socioeconomic situation in each locality, improving science training, expanding networks to remote places, and recruiting minority teachers. The plan is to make education more applicable to daily needs and increase cooperation among various ministries, organizations, and the community in regard to educational activities. This plan can be implemented only if those with the proper experience and capabilities are in place, and with the government’s support.

The COVID-19 outbreak is posing challenges to businesses due to uncertainty regarding the duration and extent of the pandemic. Thus, long-term effects remain unknown. However, the pandemic is likely to have an impact on cash flow, M&A transactions, and business valuation. This publication will provide insights on several factors that can mitigate these effects and risks, and on preparing one’s organization for further development.

This publication provides an overview of K-12 education in Southeast Asia, highlighting significant trends, key issues, challenges, and opportunities in this market sector that investors should be aware of.