Thank you to all the funders who have contributed in 2009 so far! Our online fundraising is ongoing through our Global Giving sites. To view these sites please visit www.GlobalGiving.com.

Please click  here to view the full thank you letter from SEDA.

The Swiss Development Corporation has contracted Educational Development Center (EDC) to conduct an assessment of civil society in Lao PDR.  This study aims to examine ways to strengthen the civil society sector in Lao PDR, through reviewing past interventions and areas of success and/or challenges, analyzing current response and identifying needs and gaps in moving forward.

Souly and other workshop attendess discuss ideas

The methodology will include a literature review, but to a greater extent will involve direct gathering of data and information from key informants.  Semi-structured interviews and a two-day participatory workshop were held during the week of 25-29 May 2009 in Vientiane. Souly QuachAngkham, SEDA Founder/Director participated in the workshop.

To view a PDF of Souly’s report on the workshop please click here.

SEDA’s plans for 2009-2014 are to:

1.  Further develop sustainable agribusiness and medicinal plants industries in Laos, utilizing the best technology available
2. Promote and preserve Lao cultural heritage and reduce poverty through quality hand woven textiles and other products
3. Develop small enterprises by providing micro-finance and money management education to the poor
4.  Improve health, nutrition, safety and protect the environment
5. Contribute to better educational outcomes for children and young people
6. Ensure that SEDA has the necessary financial and human resources and operates in an accountable, effective, cooperative and independent manner

To view a full PDF of this post please click here.

SEDA would like to thank all the donors that contributed funds in 2008.  A letter outlining the larger donations and the work they made possible can be viewed here. The generous donations of SEDA’s supporters last year funded the construction of a bio-gas converter, built patient units for the clinic, and much more!