ESTABLISHMENT OF INSTITUTE FOR TRAINING AND BUSINESS RESEARCH IN LAO PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC (LAO PDR) BY THE AUTHORITIES OF THAILAND

Abstract

This research aimed at 1) studying the establishment process of Thai business training centers and research institutes in Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and 2) studying the needs and readiness of personnel, business people and agencies from both public and private sectors in the Lao People's Democratic Republic, demanding business training and research programs. This research used qualitative method. Data collection employed in-depth interview with individual informants. Data analysis adopted grounded theory and software package to model and link analyzed data with research concepts. The study revealed that development of human resource of the Lao People's Democratic Republic focused on establishing business training and research center. The important elements of its establishment consisted of reasons of training needs, desired training project type, procedures of successful business establishment and training problems and obstacles. In addition, factors affecting human resource development consisted cooperation network from Thailand, training intentionally supporting small and medium enterprises, and financial supports and funds. The suggestion stated that there should be network creation with funding support organizations and cooperation with governmental agencies; or joint venture with Laos departments, ministries, business associations and private companies. In addition, training programs should focus on business management. The highly needed programs are related to production skill increase, business management, technology and innovation usage as well as attitude change and self-development for Lao People’s Democratic Republic 4.0.