As part of a joint effort to promote youth empowerment and skills development, representatives from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Department under the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES), visited the Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn & Suites Vientiane to meet with young trainees enrolled in on-the-job training programs in culinary arts, baking, and desserts.

The visit highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in building opportunities for Lao youth, particularly young women, to gain practical skills, grow their confidence, and secure pathways to meaningful employment. During the visit, delegates engaged with the trainees, observed their work in the professional kitchens, and discussed next steps to enhance collaboration across sectors.

For the students of Pakpasak TVET College, this internship opportunity at Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn is more than just training; it is a gateway to mastering professional skills aligned with global standards in the hospitality sector. It provides young people with hands-on experience essential for success, empowering young people to become part of the skilled workforce in support of a more resilient economy" said Mr. Bakhtiyor Kadyrov, UNFPA Representative in Lao PDR.  

With 60% of the population under the age of 25, Lao PDR is in a once-in-a-lifetime demographic window of opportunity. We need to act decisively to equip our youth not just with skills and jobs, but with purpose, pride, and a sense of agency”

The visit also served as a platform to explore how the private sector can play a greater role in scaling up youth training initiatives and fostering inclusive growth.

This collaboration exemplifies the power of shared vision and collective responsibility,” said Deputy Director General of TVET Department, Ministry of Education and Sports. Mr. Tingkham SULINTHA, “When young people are empowered with knowledge and practical skills, they become changemakers, not just for their families, but for the entire country. This initiative is a bridge to resilience, confidence, and long-term national development.”

The Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn & Suites Vientiane has opened its kitchens and mentorship to 7 trainees, offering a unique opportunity for youth to gain real-world experience in hospitality.

 At Crowne Plaza, we believe that our role extends beyond hospitality—we are also a platform for empowerment,” said Mr. Murali Viswanathan, Cluster General Manager for Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn & Suites Vientiane. 

Watching these young trainees grow, learn, and develop their confidence has been inspiring for our entire team. We are proud to contribute to shaping a more inclusive workforce in Lao PDR and hope others in the private sector will join us. Currently, 367 of our 400 staff are Lao nationals. We will continue to believe in and promote Lao talented youth”

I am very happy and grateful to Crowne Plaza Vientiane for giving me the opportunity to intern at the hotel. I learned about various tasks and new experiences. I gained a new perspective and I will use this lesson to develop myself to be even better and apply in my future career in hospitality,” -  Phonepaseuth Thor, Crowne Plaza Internee expressed.

My internship here has been a transformative experience, both personally and professionally. I've not only developed essential skills like responsibility, teamwork, and adaptability but also discovered a newfound confidence in my abilities. I'm excited to apply these valuable lessons to future endeavors and continue my journey of growth and development," - said Khamla Duangdee, Crowne Plaza Internee.

 Looking ahead, UNFPA, MoES, and Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn plan to expand the initiative, reach more youth—especially those from vulnerable and rural backgrounds—and integrate life skills, sexual and reproductive health education, and gender equality into vocational programs. The visit reaffirmed the commitment of all partners to ensure no young person is left behind in Lao PDR’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable development.