The 21st century has brought about rapid and unpredictable changes. We live in a BANI world—Brittle, Anxious, Nonlinear, and Incomprehensible—where societies face disruptions from technology, new economic models, and shifting global expectations. Amidst such uncertainties, education remains the most powerful tool for creating equal opportunities, reducing poverty, and paving the way toward sustainable development. In line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 1 (No Poverty) and Goal 4 (Quality Education), the Faculty of Education, Burapha University, launched the project “Next Step for Sustainable Education & Empowered Communities” from 3-6 March 2026 in Champasak Province, Lao PDR. The project introduced the concept of a Next Step for Sustainable Education & Empowered Communities. This approach emphasises lifelong learning, innovation, cross-disciplinary integration, and the empowerment of youth as global citizens. Through workshops, discussions, and community engagement, participants were encouraged to co-design innovative solutions that address poverty reduction while strengthening sustainable education systems
Project Coordinator: Dr Nuttchana Futemwong Assistant Dean for Administrative Affairs
Objectives:
- To continue and strengthen the implementation of the SDGs framework, with a focus on SDG 1 (Eradicating Poverty) and SDG 4 (Quality Education).
- To build a learning network and foster sustainable community development in collaboration with educational institutions and partner networks in the area.
- To promote the role of students, youth, teachers, and educational administrators in creating innovative learning for a sustainable society.
- To disseminate approaches to education for sustainable development (ESD) at the community and educational organisation levels.
- Enhance community quality of life through learning activities, academic services, and creative engagement.
- To publicise the Faculty of Education’s courses.
Program Activities:
On 4 March 2026, we organised and facilitated a workshop with teachers and students at Pakse Teacher Training College, fostering collaboration and active participation. On 5 March 2026, we exchanged knowledge on sustainable educational management practices with the demonstration school of Pakse Teacher Training College, promoting innovative approaches and shared learning.
Expected Outcomes (Impacts):
- Communities and educational institutions in the area can develop sustainable education and poverty alleviation projects within the framework of the SDGs.
- The Faculty of Education, Burapha University, has a prominent image and role as a higher education institution that drives social and community development at the international level. 3. Stakeholders have established a model for educational cooperation for sustainable development (ESD), which they can scale up to other areas or countries in the future.
Date of Implementation:March 3-6, 2026
