Laos is investing in its higher education system, with the government announcing a new wave of reforms aimed at raising university standards, modernizing curricula, and strengthening ties with international institutions.
The Ministry of Education and Sports unveiled the plans following a national review meeting at the National University of Laos.
Minister Thongsalith Mangnomek said the government will upgrade infrastructure, introduce new subjects including artificial intelligence, and deepen partnerships with foreign universities to better prepare Lao graduates for the demands of a changing economy.
The reforms come at a critical moment, however. Despite the ambition, data shows that fewer students are making it to university, a challenge officials acknowledge must be addressed alongside improvements to quality.
Dropout Rates Remain a Key Challenge
In 2025, Laos had 29 higher education institutions, including five universities. A total of 39,780 students were enrolled, a small increase of 2.4 percent from the previous year. However, only 8,797 students graduated, marking a sharp drop of 19 percent.
At the same time, the number of teachers fell by 7 percent, raising further concerns about the system’s capacity to support students.
The number of students sitting university entrance exams dropped significantly, from 11,976 in the 2022–2023 academic year to just 7,441 in 2023–2024. National Assembly reports also indicate that student enrollment is declining across all levels of education, especially at higher levels.
In the 2023–2024 academic year, only 3,680 students enrolled out of more than 10,000 available university and college places, highlighting a widening gap between supply and demand.
Education officials say several factors are driving this trend. Economic pressure remains a major issue, with many students leaving school early to work or support their families. Limited access to schools in rural areas and ongoing teacher shortages also make it harder for students to stay in education.
Reforms Aim to Modernise Education System
The government’s push to improve universities is part of a wider effort to reform the education system. Laos plans to introduce a new 6+3+3 structure by 2028, extending primary education and aligning the system more closely with regional models.
At the same time, the country is working with international partners through programs such as the Reforming Higher Education in Laos initiative, which focuses on improving quality assurance and modernising university systems.
Officials say these reforms aim to produce graduates with stronger skills that match labour market needs and support economic growth.


