Khon Kaen University and the Thailand International Cooperation Agency concluded a midwifery training program for 30 healthcare workers from Lao PDR on June 27, 2025, aimed at reducing maternal mortality rates and supporting United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The initiative strengthens healthcare capacity across 12 provinces in Laos as part of enhanced ASEAN regional cooperation.
KKU and TICA Enhance Midwifery Capacity in Lao PDR to Support SDG Goals
Key Details
The Faculty of Nursing at Khon Kaen University, working with the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA) under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, completed a short-term training course titled “Midwifery Training: Making Motherhood Safer – Strengthening Midwives’ Competencies for Safe Motherhood in Lao PDR.” The closing ceremony occurred at the Srikalapruek Conference Room, Faculty of Nursing, Khon Kaen University.
Assistant Professor Dr. Phattrawit Phonphinit, Vice President for Human Resources at Khon Kaen University, presided over the ceremony and presented certificates to participants from the Lao People’s Democratic Republic who completed the training program.
Associate Professor Dr. Ampornphan Theeranuth, Dean of the Faculty of Nursing, explained that the project enhanced competencies of midwives from 12 provinces in Lao PDR: Luang Prabang, Xayaburi, Houaphanh, Xieng Khouang, Oudomxay, Luang Namtha, Bokeo, Vientiane, Khammouane, Savannakhet, Salavan, and Champasak.
- 30 healthcare workers from Lao PDR completed the program
- Training covered 12 provinces across Laos
- Focus on safe delivery techniques and obstetric complications
- Delivered by experienced faculty from Khon Kaen University
- Aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal 3
Quotes & Reactions
Dr. Phattrawit congratulated the participants and emphasized that “the knowledge and skills gained during the training could be applied in their professional settings to strengthen maternal and child healthcare services,” according to university officials.
He noted that the initiative “will contribute to reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in Lao PDR, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of lowering the maternal mortality ratio to no more than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030.”
Background & Context
The training program reflects diplomatic ties between Thailand and Laos, occurring during celebrations of 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Participants engaged in both theoretical and practical learning covering safe delivery techniques, basic management of obstetric complications, neonatal care, professional communication, and effective patient referrals.
The initiative supports maternal health improvement efforts across the ASEAN region, focusing on building sustainable healthcare systems through enhanced midwifery training and capacity building programs.
What’s Next
This public health cooperation initiative between Thailand and Lao PDR strengthens midwife capacity while contributing to safer, more equitable, and sustainable healthcare systems across the ASEAN region. The project supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages by 2030.
