VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — The Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (MOLSW), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the United Nation (UN) in Lao PDR celebrated the National and International Day for Persons with Disabilities on December 16. The event was organized by the Lao Disabled People’s Association (LDPA), co-funded by USAID and UNDP, in partnership with the Disability Service Center, Lao Association of the Blind, Hands of Hope, Association for Autism, Disabilities Mainstreaming Advisory Service Center, Women with Disabilities Association, Center for Medical Rehabilitation (CMR), Naga Management & Service Sole Co., Ltd, Humanity & Inclusion Laos, World Education, and other organizations that support persons with disabilities.
The event saw a gathering of people from all walks of life who came to celebrate and appreciate the contributions of people with disabilities in the society. The theme for this year’s celebration was “United in action to rescue and achieve the SDGs for, with, and by persons with disabilities,” which highlighted the global commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with disabilities, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The morning session was held at the CMR, where a variety of sporting and cultural activities took place, including wheelchair basketball, inclusive football, boccia, goal ball, and petanque. The afternoon session was held at the Parkson shopping mall and was open to the public. It featured exhibitions from several organizations for people with disabilities, showcasing their efforts to improve the lives and well-being of persons with disabilities in Laos. The event featured activities such as wheelchair dance performances, singing, games, sign language dance, K-pop dance, and panel discussions on inclusive employment.
The event was a success, thanks to the efforts of LDPA, USAID, UN in Lao PDR, the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, Disability Service Center, Lao Association of the Blind, Hands of Hope, Association for Autism, Disabilities Mainstreaming Advisory Service Center, Women with Disabilities Association, CMR, Naga Management & Service Sole Co., Ltd, Humanity & Inclusion Laos, World Education, and other organizations that support people with disabilities. It was a testament to the commitment of these organizations to promote inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with disabilities in Laos.
Laos Unites in Celebrating and Honoring Persons with Disabilities on National and International Day 2023
VIENTIANE, LAO PDR — The Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (MOLSW), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the United Nation (UN) in Lao PDR celebrated the National and International Day for Persons with Disabilities on December 16. The event was organized by the Lao Disabled People’s Association (LDPA), co-funded by USAID and UNDP, in partnership with the Disability Service Center, Lao Association of the Blind, Hands of Hope, Association for Autism, Disabilities Mainstreaming Advisory Service Center, Women with Disabilities Association, Center for Medical Rehabilitation (CMR), Naga Management & Service Sole Co., Ltd, Humanity & Inclusion Laos, World Education, and other organizations that support persons with disabilities.
The event saw a gathering of people from all walks of life who came to celebrate and appreciate the contributions of people with disabilities in the society. The theme for this year’s celebration was “United in action to rescue and achieve the SDGs for, with, and by persons with disabilities,” which highlighted the global commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with disabilities, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The morning session was held at the CMR, where a variety of sporting and cultural activities took place, including wheelchair basketball, inclusive football, boccia, goal ball, and petanque. The afternoon session was held at the Parkson shopping mall and was open to the public. It featured exhibitions from several organizations for people with disabilities, showcasing their efforts to improve the lives and well-being of persons with disabilities in Laos. The event featured activities such as wheelchair dance performances, singing, games, sign language dance, K-pop dance, and panel discussions on inclusive employment.
The event was a success, thanks to the efforts of LDPA, USAID, UN in Lao PDR, the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, Disability Service Center, Lao Association of the Blind, Hands of Hope, Association for Autism, Disabilities Mainstreaming Advisory Service Center, Women with Disabilities Association, CMR, Naga Management & Service Sole Co., Ltd, Humanity & Inclusion Laos, World Education, and other organizations that support people with disabilities. It was a testament to the commitment of these organizations to promote inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with disabilities in Laos.
Request for Proposals (RFP)
Disability Inclusion Research, Assessment, and Capacity Building Activities
RFP No: USAID Okard-6-2023
The USAID Okard Activity, implemented by World Education, is soliciting proposals for an anticipated scope of work including supporting nine (9) specific activities that will be implemented from 2024-2027 related to disability inclusion research, assessment, and capacity building connected to the CBID component and stakeholder engagement component of USAID Okard. When preparing your research proposals, please be guided by the instructions and requirements provided in the full version of the RFP.
Proposals must be submitted by email, with all required attachments and support documents as stipulated in the full version of the RFP before 17.00 (Indochina time, Vientiane, Lao PDR) on January 15, 2024 to the Activity Manager.
In case of any queries, please send your questions to the Activity Manager.
Activity Manager:
USAID Okard
Attn: Meredith Lunsford, Senior Program Officer
World Education
44 Farnsworth Street
Boston, MA 02210, USA
Tel: +1–617–385–3812
Email: meredith_lunsford@worlded.org
Attachment: Okard (Phase II)_RFP_Research, Capacity Building and Assessment_FINAL
Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR — On October 11-13, 2023, Acting USAID Country Representative to Lao PDR Dr. Kevin Smith and Deputy Director General of Department of Policy for Devotees, Persons with Disability and Older Persons and Deputy Head of Secretariat to National Committee for Disabilities and Elderly, Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare Mr. Sengaloun Luangraj together celebrated the achievements of the USAID Okard. More than 150 sub-recipients and stakeholders shared USAID Okard’s successes and impact in promoting the independence and functional ability of persons with disabilities through equal access to quality health and social services in Lao PDR.
“The United States is committed to support disability inclusive development in Lao PDR and recognizes the need to foster the independent living and functional ability of persons with disabilities, including survivors of UXO accidents. We remain dedicated to collaborating with and supporting the health, economic empowerment and disability sector in this country,” noted Dr. Smith in expressing his appreciation toward the Government of Laos and the Ministry in this partnership. “We look forward to expanding this partnership to uplift the lives of persons with disabilities, helping them become productive members of the society and enabling them to participate in Laos’ social economic development agendas.”
Deputy Director General of Department of Policy for Devotees, Persons with Disability and Older Persons and Deputy, Head of Secretariat to National Committee for Disabilities and Elderly, Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare Mr. Sengaloun Luangraj highlighted the expanding decade-long support from USAID in disability inclusion. “The project’s achievements serve as a model for others to follow and a reminder that working towards inclusion is a continuous effort that requires the involvement of all stakeholders.” said Deputy Director General of Department of Policy for Devotees, Persons with Disability and Older Persons and Deputy Head of Secretariat to National Committee for Disabilities and Elderly, Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare Mr. Sengaloun Luangraj. “We appreciate USAID Okard’s efforts working with the Ministry to improve the lives of our friends with disabilities.”
USAID Okard is a six-year project funded by the United States Agency for International Development, and implemented by World Education Lao PDR, and Humanity & Inclusion. The project has been instrumental in promoting the functional ability of persons with disabilities in the Lao PDR. The project addressed the social and economic exclusion faced by persons with disabilities, where they often encounter significant barriers to accessing services and participating in society.
USAID Okard has achieved significant successes in improving the lives of persons with disabilities. The project has supported the development of disability-inclusive policies and practices across various sectors, including health, education, and social protection. It has also built the capacity of local partners to provide disability-inclusive services, including rehabilitation, assistive products, and inclusive education. These efforts have helped to increase access to services for persons with disabilities and assist them to participate in the Lao economy.
To recognize and celebrate the achievements and impact of the project, an event was held to highlight the successful partnership between USAID Okard, and its partners, including the Lao government, and civil society organizations working together for a disability inclusive society and improving rehabilitation services for all. The event aimed to exchange lessons on implementing the activities, highlighting the barriers removed or reduced due to support from USAID Okard, but also acknowledging the challenges still faced by persons with disabilities. The event emphasized the importance of continuing to create an environment in which they can equally access health and social services, and actively participate in society.
The celebration aimed to inspire continued efforts towards improving the lives of persons with disabilities and promoting their inclusion in society. It emphasized that everyone has a role in removing barriers to create a more inclusive community. USAID Okard has shown that with the right policies, systems, and partnerships, it is possible to promote the functional ability of persons with disabilities and ensure they have equal access to quality health, economic, and social services.
To date, USAID Okard has improved the lives of over 29,000 vulnerable persons, including 176 survivors of unexposed ordnance or UXO, trained 5,417 service providers, strengthened 832 organizations, and supported 8,788 persons to receive health and related rehabilitation services. USAID Okard also supported the provision of nearly 13,000 crutches, wheelchairs and other basic assistive products for the Ministry of Health. Over 2,000 persons with disabilities and their households received USAID-donated braces, supports and other specialized assistive products, plus income generation support, while over 175 people are now employed to earn their own incomes, most of whom for the first time.
Vientiane, Lao PDR – 24 August 2023, the Department of Healthcare and Rehabilitation, Ministry of Health, together with USAID Okard, led the hand-over of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) awareness materials, aimed at improving mental health awareness and literacy among community health center staff in eight targeted districts in Xieng Khouang and Savannakhet as well as Provincial and Central hospitals as well as Centre for Health Statistics and Information.
Mental health disorders are often neglected or stigmatized in various communities, despite being a crucial element of overall wellbeing. Marginalized populations, including those living in poverty, with chronic conditions, physical disabilities, and their caregivers, are disproportionately affected by mental health issues. In Lao PDR, where specialized mental health services are limited, the involvement and effort of community health providers and leaders are essential to address the lack of resources.
The materials, which include posters and videos covering a range of topics related to mental health, were developed by USAID Okard in close consultation with the Department of Healthcare and Rehabilitation, Ministry of Health, and mental health specialists from Mahosot Hospital and 103 Hospital. They are designed to equip health professionals, particularly those in community health centers, with the necessary resources to further promote mental health literacy and understanding of common mental health problems in their communities. This, in turn, will improve help-seeking behaviors of community members regarding MHPSS when needed.
Dr. Sommana Lattana, Deputy Director of the Department of Healthcare and Rehabilitation, Ministry of Health, remarked, “As much as physical health is important, mental health is equally crucial. Mental health problems may not be visible, but they pose a silent threat to our overall well-being. We must be aware of our mental health condition, recognize the warning signs, and seek help when needed. These materials will be essential tools for everyone in the community to learn more about common mental health disorders and how to access help.”
The materials will be displayed in healthcare facilities and promoted on social media to reach wider audiences. They will also integrate with the work of the Ministry of Health in advocating for MHPSS. This is a significant step forward in promoting mental health awareness and literacy in these areas. By increasing knowledge and awareness of mental health, we can help break down stigmas and promote positive attitudes towards seeking help and treatment.
USAID Okard, funded by USAID and implemented by World Education, Inc., in partnership with Humanity & Inclusion, improves access to quality rehabilitation and economic opportunities for persons with disabilities and supports the design and implementation of disabilities inclusive policies.
VIENTIANE CAPITAL, LAO PDR — On August 22, 2023. USAID Country Representative to Lao PDR, Mr. Michael Ronning joined Director General Department Healthcare and Rehabilitation, Ministry of Health, Dr. Khamsay Detleuxay to officially hand over a priority list of nearly 13,000 rehabilitation assistive products to strengthen the health and rehabilitation system in Laos, supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
“We take great pride in providing these substantial rehabilitation assistive products to the Ministry of Health. Our support ensures that individuals with difficulties in functioning will receive quality rehabilitation services, improving their life,” Mr. Ronning expressed with enthusiasm. “The U.S. Government’s commitment to health and disability assistance is a cornerstone of our Comprehensive Partnership with Lao PDR. We remain dedicated to collaborating with and supporting the health and disability sector in this country, and we look forward to continuing to do so in the future.”
Rehabilitation is an essential component in strengthening the Lao healthcare system, and it cannot be achieved without the proper assistive products. Providing these priority assistive products is a tremendous boost to healthcare facilities across Laos. These products will benefit central hospitals, provincial hospitals in Xieng Khouang and Savannakhet, as well as all Provincial Rehabilitation Centers, ensuring that individuals with difficulties in functioning receive top-notch rehabilitation services. This milestone will significantly improve the quality of rehabilitation services at the community level, allowing people to access healthcare from qualified doctors, nurses, and physiotherapists. It is a great step forward in ensuring that the people of Laos receive the care they need.
USAID, through USAID Okard, has contributed a total of 12,675 assistive products that assist with mobility, self- care and positioning of the body, valued at 2,542,888,970 LAK. USAID Okard also procured storage items such as boxes, cupboards and shelves for each health facility – a total of 151 items with a value of 189,508,770 LAK. This brings the total value of the procurement to 2,732,397,740 LAK provided to 11 health facilities: the Center for Medical Rehabilitation, Mahosot Hospital, Mitthaphab Hospital, Setthahirat Hospital at central level, Xieng Khouang Provincial Hospital, Xieng Khouang Provincial Rehabilitation Center and Kham District Hospital and Savannakhet Provincial Hospital, Savannakhet Provincial Rehabilitation Center, Xepone and Xayphouthong District Hospital.
USAID Okard, funded by USAID and implemented by World Education, Inc., in partnership with Humanity and Inclusion, improves access to quality rehabilitation and economic opportunities for persons with disabilities and supports design and implementation of disabilities inclusive policies.
Job Description
Monitoring Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Manager, USAID Okard
May 2023
Background
World Education, Inc. (WEI) has been operational in the Lao PDR since 1992. WEI has worked in a number of sectors (agriculture, education, health, microfinance, and repatriation) over the past 25 years. Projects are currently focused on: Disability Inclusion, Explosive Ordnance Risk Education, Capacity Building, and Economic Development. Current projects include:
1. USAID Okard: Promotes the independence and functional ability of persons with disabilities through equal access to health and social services, partnering with the public and private sectors to support persons with disabilities in the areas of health, economic empowerment and stakeholder engagement.
2. Lawang: Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE): Keeps children safe from unexploded ordnance (UXO) by integrating EORE lessons into the national primary and secondary school curriculum, and creating EORE messages and platforms for non-formal education and community engagement.
3. War Victims Medical Fund: Provides critical financial support to survivors of UXO accidents including immediate and ongoing medical care, as well as funeral costs in case of death.
In implementing these activities, World Education works in partnership with relevant Government of Lao PDR agencies including the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and Sports, Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, Ministry of Industry and Commerce, National Regulatory Authority and Ministry of Foreign Affairs. To learn more visit us at www.worlded.org or www.laos.worlded.org
The USAID Okard (ໂອກາດ) Activity is managed and implemented by World Education (October 2017 – September 2027*) together with several sub-recipients from government and civil society organizations. The project intends to improve and sustain the independent living and functional ability of persons with disabilities, regardless of factors such as age, sex, gender expression, ethnic origin, or indigenous status, and their households in Lao PDR. It is implemented in four target provinces – Vientiane Capital, Xieng Khouang, Savannakhet, and Sekong.* (Note: Phase 2 includes 2023 – 2027 with the addition of Sekong province).
Job Description:
USAID Okard Activity results are measured, and evaluated across four main components – Health, Economic Empowerment, Stakeholder Engagement and Community-Based Inclusive Development (CBID). Each component is further broken down to key interventions that interconnect and mutually reinforce components and activities proposed in order to achieve the intended results. World Education has an Activity Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (AMEL) Plan with sixteen indicators consistent with USAID Regulations and that is capable of tracking and documenting progress against program objectives and results. The AMEL Plan reflects the progress of the project and is a critical tool for planning, managing, documenting, and evaluating performance.
The selected Monitoring Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Manager will be primarily responsible for overseeing the implementation of the AMEL plan for the overall Okard Activity, including measurement of both outputs and outcomes, overseeing internal and external evaluations, and the appropriate use of generated data and results into learning.
The MEL Manager will be in charge of / accountable for:
- Managing the implementation of the Activity Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning plan (AMEL plan), ensuring the plan itself and all related attachments are up to date (updated annually at a minimum), and ensuring indicators, evaluation methodology, data collection systems and targets are appropriate and practical.
- Liaising with the MEL POC of USAID regarding the implementation of the AMEL plan, DQA and all related reporting
- Supervising the MEL team, ensuring all members of the team are aware of their responsibilities and performing optimally, and providing coaching and professional guidance as and when needed
- Managing and maintaining the existing CBID database, ensuring access and appropriate utilization by program staff as needed.
- Adapting and digitizing (using Kobo Toolbox) the existing Needs Assessment tool (Modular Tool) for CBID case management
- Ensuring that any partners (sub-recipients and/or service contractors) who work with World Education are in line with the MEL framework/ plan, including ensuring partners’ data quality.
- Training project partners in principles of monitoring and evaluation and specifics of the MEL framework, indicator and tools as required.
- Manage the development, procurement and implementation process of internal and external evaluations of the project.
- Supporting all project and partner staff in developing, training, and applying new and proven approaches to monitoring, learning, and quality assurance and continuous quality improvement.
- Ensuring all individual level data collected either through quarterly/annual reports, surveys, baseline/endline, evaluations or assessments is disaggregated as required by USAID.
- Managing required reporting for the project, ensuring that all inputs are strategic, consistent and coordinated, and that quality reports are delivered as per the indicated schedule.
- Managing the Data Quality Assessment (DQA) plan and procedures to determine the validity, reliability, and integrity of performance data gathered.
- Collating and analyzing project data, and managing the dissemination/sharing and use of MEL data as appropriate.
- Managing data entry, storage and security Providing quarterly M&E reports and briefing the project Technical Committee to discuss and flag MEL related issues.
- Providing support to the program team and sub-recipients related to specific data collection activities as required (such as District Health Information System-2/ FRAME, Disability Management Information System (DMIS))
The MEL Manager will supervise the work of an MEL Officer and the Data Entry Assistant* and will work under the supervision of the Chief of Party (CoP), with the support of MEL Consultants and Database Consultant as required, and will contribute to the work of the Technical Committee.
*Note: Starting in Phase 2
Minimum Qualifications:
- An advanced degree in public health, social sciences, development, or a related field preferred;
- 7-10 years of professional experience in designing and managing M&E frameworks, including management experience overseeing a team to conduct monitoring, evaluation and lessons learned activities;
- Knowledge of and experience using and developing digital data collection tools on platforms such as: ODK or Kobo Toolbox
- Knowledge of and experience using qualitative and quantitative research skills, and a clear understanding of difference between output and outcome measurement;
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in both English and Lao;
- Excellent critical thinking and analytical skills;
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills required to train or coach staff and give occasional presentations; and
- Well organized, confident and self-directed with strong technical skills and analytical abilities
- Team player who takes initiative, is a problem-solver and able to multi-task;
- Strong attention to detail and ability to meet tight deadlines;
Preferred Qualifications:
- Knowledge of and/or experience with USAID results frameworks, M&E plans, and program evaluation including collaboration and learning
- Statistical analysis experience
- Training, facilitating and building partner capacity skills;
- Experience working on other disability and inclusion focused projects; and
- Ability to travel occasionally for monitoring and/or training visits.
Reports to: Chief of Party
Location: Laos Vientiane capital with travel to Xieng Khouang, Savannakhet, and Sekong* Provinces.
Application Details:
World Education offers a competitive salary and benefit package including employee and family health insurance, end of year bonus, severance benefits and career development opportunities.
World Education is an equal opportunity employer and encourages the applications of women, ethnic minorities and people with disabilities.
Applicants should submit a current CV and letter of interest detailing their relevant experience to:
World Education, Ban Phiawat, Sisattanak District, Vientiane Capital (PO Box 6782)
Tel: 214 524, 222 439; Fax: 217553; E-mail: bounxeuy_chanthathong@la.worlded.org
Application deadline is Friday, 19 May 2023.
Start date: June 2023
“Data is critical to inform the future direction of the Ministry of Health on rehabilitation. Reviewing the progress of the Rehabilitation Strategy, developing a monitoring framework and increasing availability of data will help us to plan for the next 10 years so we can support the growing number of people who need rehabilitation and increase access to quality rehabilitation services, to build capacity of the health workforce, and to inform the availability of assistive products through a multi-sectoral approach” said Dr Bounfeng Phoummalaysith, Health Minister.
On 21-22 March 2023, the Ministry of Health, technically supported by WHO and USAID Okard, conducted a meeting to review the progress of the National Rehabilitation Strategy (2018 – 2025) and develop a monitoring framework. Chaired by the Director General Department Healthcare and Rehabilitation, Ministry of Health Dr. Khamsay Detleuxay, key representatives from MoH departments responsible for health planning, personnel, financing, national health insurance, pre-service and in-service education, health information systems and service provision discussed the significant achievements and challenges since 2018, and the priorities for rehabilitation until 2025. Also discussed were priority indicators that will reflect the results of the strategic plan, and data generation processes that will increase availability of data so the Ministry of Health can make evidence-based decisions on expanding rehabilitation as an essential health service for all the population.
“There is a significant need for rehabilitation services in Laos PDR. Rehabilitation contributes to population health and improves people’s day to day functioning; it is an essential health service for all who need it. Rehabilitation should be integrated into health planning processes, the rehabilitation workforce should be valued and supported, and rehabilitation services made part of the continuum of care, congratulations to the Ministry of Health on the awareness of the importance of rehabilitation and commitment to strengthen it, I encourage you to move forward building your country’s capacity to lead, plan and collect data, and also influencing decision-makers within health facilities to drive service expansion with an integrated approach to the provision of rehabilitation including assistive products in Laos PDR.” said Pauline Kleinitz, WHO Technical Advisor, Rehabilitation Programme
“ຂໍ້ມູນແມ່ນມີຄວາມສຳຄັນສຳລັບບອກທິດທາງໃນອະນາຄົດຂອງກະຊວງສາທາລະນະສຸກກ່ຽວກັບວຽກງານການແພດຟື້ນຟູໜ້າທີ່ການ. ການທົບທວນຄວາມຄືບໜ້າຂອງຍຸດທະສາດດ້ານການແພດຟື້ນຟູໜ້າທີ່ການ, ການພັດທະນາແຜນການຕິດຕາມ ແລະ ການເພີ່ມຄວາມພ້ອມໃຊ້ງານຂອງຂໍ້ມູນຈະຊ່ວຍໃຫ້ພວກເຮົາວາງແຜນສຳລັບ 10 ປີຕໍ່ໜ້າ ເພື່ອໃຫ້ພວກເຮົາສາມາດຕອບສະໜອງຈຳນວນຄົນທີ່ຕ້ອງການດ້ານການແພດຟື້ນຟູໜ້າທີ່ການເພີ່ມຂຶ້ນ ແລະ ເພີ່ມການເຂົ້າເຖິງການບໍລິການດ້ານກາແພດຟື້ນຟູໜ້າທີ່ການທີ່ມີຄຸນນະພາບ, ເພື່ອສ້າງຂີດຄວາມສາມາດໃຫ້ແກ່ ພະນັກງານສາທາລະນະສຸກ ແລະ ເພື່ອບົ່ງບອກຄວາມພ້ອມໃຊ້ງານຜະລິດຕະພັນຊ່ວຍຊູຜ່ານວິທີການທີ່ປະກອບດ້ວຍຫຼາຍຂະແໜງ ການ”
ດຣ. ບຸນແຝງ ພູມມະໄລສິດ, ລັດຖະມົນຕີກະຊວງສາທາລະນະສຸກ
ລະຫວ່າງວັນທີ 21-22 ມີນາ 2023, ກະຊວງສາທາລະນະສຸກທີ່ໄດ້ຮັບການສະໜັບສະໜູນທາງດ້ານວິຊາການ ຈາກ ອົງການອະນາໄມໂລກ ແລະ ໂຄງການ USAID Okard ໄດ້ຈັດກອງປະຊຸມ ເພື່ອທົບທວນຄວາມຄືບໜ້າຂອງຍຸດທະສາດແຫ່ງຊາດດ້ານການແພດຟື້ນຟູໜ້າທີ່ການ (2018 – 2025) ແລະ ພັດທະນາແຜນການຕິດຕາມ. ກອງປະຊຸມດັ່ງກ່າວເປັນປະທານໂດຍຫົວໜ້າກົມປິ່ນປົວ ແລະ ຟື້ນຟູໜ້າທີ່ການ, ກະຊວງສາທາລະນະສຸກ ທ່ານ ດຣ. ຄຳໄສ ເດດລືໄຊ ແລະ ບັນດາຕາງໜ້າ ຈາກ ກົມຕ່າງໆ ຂອງ ກະຊວງສາທາລະນະສຸກ ທີ່ຮັບຜິດຊອບສຳລັບວາງແຜນວຽກງານດ້ານສຸຂະພາບ, ບຸກຄະລາກອນ, ການຂຶ້ນງົບປະມານ, ປະກັນສຸຂະພາບແຫ່ງຊາດ, ການສຶກສາກ່ອນ ແລະ ເວລາປະຈຳການ, ລະບົບຂໍ້ມູນຂ່າວສານດ້ານສຸຂະພາບ ແລະ ການສະໜອງການບໍລິການ ພ້ອມທັງໄດ້ປຶກສາຫາລືກັນກ່ຽວກັບຜົນສຳເລັດ ແລະ ສິ່ງທ້າທາຍ ຕັ້ງແຕ່ ປີ 2018 ແລະ ບູລິມະສິດສຳລັບວຽກງານການແພດຟື້ນຟູໜ້າທີ່ການ ຈົນຮອດ ປີ 2025. ນອກຈາກນັ້ນ, ກອງປະຊຸມຍັງໄດ້ປຶກສາຫາລືກ່ຽວກັບຕົວຊີ້ວັດທີ່ເປັນບູລິມະສິດທີ່ຈະສະທ້ອນເຖິງຜົນໄດ້ຮັບຂອງແຜນຍຸດທະສາດ ແລະ ຂະບວນການສ້າງຂໍ້ມູນທີ່ຈະເພີ່ມຄວາມພ້ອມໃຊ້ງານຂອງຂໍ້ມູນເພື່ອໃຫ້ກະຊວງສາທາລະນະສຸກ ສາມາດດຳເນີນການຕັດສິນໃຈຕາມຫຼັກຖານກ່ຽວກັບການຂະຫຍາຍວຽກງານການແພດຟື້ນຟູໜ້າທີ່ການຊຶ່ງເປັນການບໍລິການດ້ານສຸຂະພາບທີ່ຈຳເປັນສຳລັບປະຊາກອນໝົດທຸກຄົນ.
“ມີຄວາມຕ້ອງການຫຼາຍສຳລັບການບໍລິການດ້ານການແພດຟື້ນຟູໜ້າທີ່ການ ຢູ່ ສປປ ລາວ. ວຽກງານການແພດຟື້ນຟູ ໜ້າທີ່ການມີສ່ວນຊ່ວຍສຸຂະພາບຂອງປະຊາກອນ ແລະ ປັບປຸງການເຮັດໜ້າທີ່ການໃນຊີວິດປະຈຳວັນຂອງຄົນຊຶ່ງເປັນການບໍລິການດ້ານສຸຂະພາບທີ່ຈຳເປັນສຳລັບທຸກຄົນທີ່ຕ້ອງການມັນ. ຄວນມີການເຊື່ອມສານການແພດຟື້ນຟູໜ້າທີ່ການເຂົ້າກັບຂະບວນການວາງແຜນດ້ານສຂະພາບ, ບຸກຄະລາກອນການແພດຟື້ນຟູໜ້າທີ່ການ ຄວນໄດ້ຮັບຄຸນຄ່າ ແລະ ໄດ້ຮັບການສະໜັບສະໜູນ ແລະ ຄວນເຮັດໃຫ້ການບໍລິການດ້ານການແພດຟື້ນຟູໜ້າທີ່ການເປັນສ່ວນໜຶ່ງຂອງການປິ່ນປົວແບບຕໍ່ເນື່ອງ ໂດຍໃຫ້ທ່ານໝໍ ແລະ ແພດສະເພາະທາງສະເໜີຂໍການບໍລິການເຫຼົ່ານີ້ໃຫ້ແກ່ ຄົນເຈັບຂອງເຂົາເຈົ້າ.
ຂໍສະແດງຄວາມຍິນດີກັບກະຊວງສາທາລະນະສຸກທີ່ຮັບຮູ້ເຖິງຄວາມສຳຄັນຂອງວຽກງານການແພດຟື້ນຟູໜ້າທີ່ການ ແລະ ມີຄວາມມຸ້ງໝັ້ນທີ່ຈະສ້າງຄວາມເຂັ້ມແຂງໃຫ້ວຽກງານດັ່ງກ່າວ, ຂ້າພະເຈົ້າ ຂໍສະໜັບສະໜູນບັນດາທ່ານສືບຕໍ່ສ້າງຂີດຄວາມສາມາດໃຫ້ກັບ ປະເທດ ເພື່ອນຳພາ, ວາງແຜນ ແລະ ເກັບກຳຂໍ້ມູນ. ນອກຈາກນີ້, ຂ້າພະເຈົ້າ ຂໍໂນ້ມນ້າວໃຫ້ຜູ້ມີອຳນາດໃນການຕັດສິນໃຈພາຍໃນສະຖານບໍລິການປິ່ນປົວດ້ານສຸຂະພາບຜັນຂະຫຍາຍການບໍລິການດ້ວຍວິທີການແບບເຊື່ອມສານສຳລັບສະໜອງການແພດຟື້ນຟູໜ້າທີ່ການ ລວມທັງ ຜະລິດຕະພັນຊ່ວຍຊູ ຢູ່ ສປປ ລາວ.”
Pauline Kleinitz, ທີ່ປຶກສາດ້ານວິຊາການ, ໂຄງການແພດຟື້ນຟູໜ້າທີ່ການ, ອົງການອະນາໄມໂລກ
The USAID Okard (ໂອກາດ) Activity is guided by the philosophy of Disability Inclusive
Development (DID) and the belief that no one should be left behind. It is a 5-year project managed
and implemented by World Education that intends to improve and sustain the independent living
and functional ability of persons with disabilities, regardless of factors such as age, sex, gender
expression, ethnic origin, or indigenous status, and their households in Lao PDR. It is
implemented in three target provinces – Vientiane Capital, Xieng Khouang and Savannakhet with
partnership with the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare.
The CBID demonstration model districts in Xieng Khouang and Savannakhet have been conducted
by local organizations with the technical support of expert organizations. CBID Facilitators have
acted as lay social workers, directly supporting persons with disabilities to identify barriers to
their optimal functioning, and work with families, communities, local authorities and relevant
service providers, so they understand these barriers and interact together to meet these needs.
This CBID demonstration model has provided the connection between the improved service
provision systems down to the individual needs of persons with disabilities and their households.
Data Collection Team:
The CBID demonstration impact assessment shall include both quantitative and qualitative data
collection and analysis, led by the external consultant, and in close collaboration with the
Technical Management Committee of USAID Okard. World Education is seeking Data Collection
Team to be part of the endline impact assessment team and take responsibility in managing the
data collection in The CBID demonstration model districts in targeted villages in Kham District,
XiengKhouang Province and Xayphouthong District, Savannakhet Province.
Data Collection Team should include: Team Leaders (2 persons), Quantitative enumerators (20
people) , Qualitative interviewers (4 people)
Time frame: This CBID Endline survey is expected to implemented from late April – June 2023
Application deadline is March 24, 2023
Application Details:
Interested applicants should submit:
1. Cost proposal for the activity or daily rate for the individual applicant
2. CV of team members detailing their relevant experience
World Education encourages the research companies, individual consultants, individual
data collectors who have capacity to complete part or full assignment to apply
World Education is an equal opportunity employer and encourages the applications of
women, ethnic minorities and people with disabilities.
World Education, Ban Phiawat, Sisattanak District, Vientiane Capital (PO Box 6782)
Tel: 214 524, 222 439; Fax: 217553; E-mail: bounxeuy_chanthathong@la.worlded.org
Access for more TOR through the link below:
Photo: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) donated rehabilitation equipment to Center of Medical Rehabilitation (CMR) – Photo credit: Souliya Ounavong, USAID Okard
Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR — On March 13, 2023, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) donated rehabilitation equipment, valued at 348,472,000 LAK, to Center of Medical Rehabilitation (CMR), Ministry of Health at a ceremony in Vientiane Capital. The donation will strengthen the delivery of quality rehabilitation services to people with disabilities in Laos. The rehabilitation equipment includes an ultrasound machine, shortwave diathermy machine, laser machine and hot packs, funded by USAID through its Okard Project, implemented by World Education.
“We are proud to provide rehabilitation equipment to CMR as the main hub of rehabilitation services in Laos. Through this support, more people with mobility difficulties will receive quality rehabilitation services,” said Dr. Kevin Smith, USAID Deputy Country Representative to Laos. “Our health and disability assistance is a central part of the U.S. – Lao Comprehensive Partnership. The United States looks forward to continuing our collaboration and support in the health and disability sector in Lao PDR.”
One of the keys to strengthening the health system is rehabilitation. When quality rehabilitation services are available at all levels of the health system, particularly at the primary health care level, it supports the Lao population as a whole and enables all to participate in, and contribute to the economic development of the country. The upgraded rehabilitation equipment provided by USAID will enable qualified doctors, nurses, and physiotherapists at CMR to deliver more high-quality services to people in need with high-level standards and accuracy of treatment. Over the past decade, USAID has supported the CMR through donating rehabilitation and training equipment, developing rehabilitation and training curricula, and providing other capacity building support. Countless individuals with disabilities across Laos, including victims of road accidents, birth complications, and unexploded ordnance incidents have benefited from such support.
USAID Okard, implemented by World Education, Inc., in partnership with Humanity and Inclusion, improves access to quality rehabilitation and economic opportunities for persons with disabilities and supports the development and implementation of disability inclusive policies.