World Education Signs MOU to Improve Well-being and Self-reliance of Persons with Disabilities in Laos

World Education Laos has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to improve the independence of persons with disabilities through equal access to health and social services.

USAID Okard builds on previous achievements through USAID’s Training, Economic Empowerment, Assistive Technologies and Medical Rehabilitation (TEAM) project, which provided assistance to nearly 6,000 persons with disabilities or impairment. The TEAM project also trained more than 500 health professionals and local partners. On May 16 in Vientane, the MOU was signed by Mr. Khamping Sengtannalat, Director General of the Department of Policy to Devotees Disability and the Elderly and Head of the Secretariat of the National Committee for Disabled People and the Elderly of the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, and World Education Laos Country Director Sarah Bruinooge. They were joined by U.S. Ambassador to Laos Rena Bitter, Vice Minister of Labor and Social Welfare Baikham Katthiya, and local partners to witness the MOU signing.

“This new agreement marks an important milestone in our countries’ partnership to enhance the independence and functional ability of persons with disabilities through equal access to health and social services in Laos,” said U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter. “The United States is committed to supporting the Government of Laos to help persons with disabilities live full and productive lives.”

World Education has operated in Laos since 1992 and is dedicated to empowering and transforming communities, families, and individuals through programs in education, health, mine action, and economic development. World Education Laos’ programs are designed to build capacity and thus self-reliance, promote self-sufficiency, and increase inclusion of all persons in Lao PDR. World Education’s work with people with disabilities spans those affected by landmines, among others. Working in partnership with a range of NGO’s and government entities to strengthen the disability sector in Laos, World Education is improving services provided to people with disabilities so they can lead more productive and fulfilling lives.