2001 ESCAP HRD AWARD GIVEN TO LAOTIAN TRAINING CENTRE WORKING WITH RURAL POOR

BANGKOK (United Nations Information Services) -- The Participatory Development Training Center, based in Vientiane, has been awarded the 2001 ESCAP Human Resources Development (HRD) Award - "Empowering the Rural Poor through HRD." The award carries a US$30,000 prize contributed by the Government of Republic of Korea.

An indigenous training centre, PADETC was selected by a jury of regional experts in human resource development and poverty reduction, in recognition of its cutting edge impact on the empowerment of the rural poor in Lao PDR.

PADETC's activities in training, appropriate technology, micro enterprise development, media development, and social marketing are components of a comprehensive and innovative approach to strengthening the rural poor's livelihood opportunities and participation. One highlight of its programme is an outstanding volunteer scheme designed as an efficient means of community mobilization and capability building. PADETC was also singled out for its creativity in combining education with entertainment and the complementarity of its approach with government efforts in Lao PDR.

Mr. Sangkom Thongmee of Thailand was chosen as runner-up for his innovative work in using art education to foster the creativity of poor rural children and youth.

The jury selected for honourable mention the Institute of Rural Management, National Rural Support Programme, Pakistan, in recognition of its work in capacity building of the rural poor.

Two-thirds of the world's 1.3 billion poor live in the Asian and Pacific region. Over 75 per cent live in rural areas where progress is hampered by poor access to HRD opportunities, low levels of education, skill development, health, remuneration, and participation in rural development.

The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN/ESCAP), Bangkok, Thailand, gives the award annually. The 2001 Award will be presented to PADETC during the Ministerial segment of the 58th ESCAP Commission Session, to be held in Bangkok in May 2002.

For further information contact:
Human Resources Development Section, Social Development Division
United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)
Tel: (66-2) 288-1502; Fax: (66-2) 288-3031
E-mail: hrd-section.unescap@un.org
Website: www.escap-hrd.org

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