MoES and Australia Unveil Video to Enhance Support for Students with Disabilities

Vientiane: The Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES), in collaboration with the Australian Government through the BEQUAL program, has launched Teacher Development Video 29 (TDV 29). This video serves as a supplement to Teacher Support Pack 14 (TSP 14), titled 'Supporting Students with Disabilities in the Classroom'. It aims to provide teachers with practical guidance on identifying signs of difficulties in students with disabilities and utilizing the Child Functioning Module - Teacher Version effectively. According to Lao News Agency, Dr. Vongphet, Director General of the Research Institute for Educational Sciences, emphasized the importance of visual materials for teachers. He stated that such resources simplify key teaching strategies, making them easier to understand, remember, and apply in classroom settings. TDV 29 is designed to promote inclusive teaching practices and enhance support for all learners, particularly those with disabilities. The video targets primary teachers and educational staff inv olved in classroom teaching. It assists educators in identifying learning support needs and implementing simple, inclusive classroom strategies. By doing so, it helps foster better participation and learning for all students, including those with disabilities. Early identification of learning needs and the suggested classroom adjustments in TSP 14 can significantly impact students with disabilities and benefit the entire class. Mr. Michael Currie, First Secretary of the Australian Embassy, highlighted the role of education in equipping children with essential skills for their future. He mentioned that the video will aid teachers in adapting their methods to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed. Additionally, it will enable parents to recognize signs of additional learning needs early, allowing them to support their children's development at home. Australia is committed to partnering with MoES to advance practical solutions that enhance inclusivity in sc hools and communities. The Information Media Center of MoES produced the video with close collaboration from lecturers at the Teacher Training Colleges of Luang Namtha, Khang Khay, and Savannakhet, along with other educational departments and experts under the BEQUAL program. TDV 29 is part of the Research and Learning on Disability Inclusion pilot for the 2026-2027 academic year, aiming to test the effectiveness of TSP 14 strategies and identify further support needed for teachers. The video is accessible on Lao ESTV - Education and Sports TV Channel, Khang Panya Lao, and the Teacher Development Videos YouTube channel. It is also available on tablets used by pedagogical support staff in the 30 target districts supported by Australia.