Vientiane: The Ministry of Technology and Communications has launched a four-day training programme aimed at strengthening cybersecurity among policymakers and civil servants while promoting digital transformation for women entrepreneurs. The workshop, held from July 28 to 31, was chaired by Kheuvisouk Solaphom, Deputy Minister of Technology and Communications, alongside Bakhodir Burkhanov, United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Lao PDR. Participants included representatives from government ministries, educational institutions, and the private sector.
According to Lao News Agency, the programme is in alignment with the National Vision on Digital Economy Development (2021-2040), the National Strategy on Digital Economy Development (2021-2030), and the country's digital economy development plan. These frameworks are designed to guide the development of digital government, economy, and society, focusing on improvements in infrastructure, digital skills, public services, and governance.
The cybersecurity training is specifically focused on strengthening institutional capacity in areas such as cyber governance, policy development, cyber risk management, and the prevention of cyberattacks and data breaches that could threaten national security, economic stability, and personal privacy.
A secondary component of the training is dedicated to enhancing the digital capabilities of women entrepreneurs, specifically those involved in micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). Participants are being introduced to digital tools designed to expand market access, strengthen online business identities, improve cost management, and increase competitiveness within the digital economy.
Officials noted that the programme exemplifies the strong cooperation between the Technology and Communications Promotion and Transfer Center under the Ministry of Technology and Communications and the Asian and Pacific Training Centre for Information and Communication Technology for Development (APCICT). The initiative is also seen as a testament to the shared commitment towards building an inclusive, secure, and sustainable digital economy that fosters innovation, entrepreneurship, and national development.