Human Resources Development (HRD) was a priority within the Mekong-ROK Cooperation framework. The 2nd Mekong-ROK Summit (Nov 2020) emphasized HRD's value in building a skilled workforce for regional co-prosperity, focusing on human capital development in strategic areas. Despite strong interest, regional HRD cooperation faced challenges due to its multisectoral nature and a lack of strategic approach. The Mekong LEAD (Leadership Program) and Mekong BUILD (Capacity Building Activities) aimed to address uneven knowledge and capacity distribution, fostering trust in region-wide cooperation through high-level training, policy dialogues, technical exchanges, and joint studies.
Priority Sector
Human Resources Development
Project Site
No. of Direct Beneficiaries
Duration
Mar-2022 to Dec-2025
Offered a five-day intensive training for Mekong policymakers and executives, engaging renowned scholars and practitioners in structured, research-based dialogues.
Curriculum planning and development were led by universities/research institutions in the region or South Korea, with the annual five-day agenda shaped by Mekong delegation leaders' opinions and expert- provided case studies.
Organized post-meeting reports and follow-up activities, including alumni sharing, network building, newsletters, and impact assessments.
Conducted annual research for Mekong LEAD, providing high-quality empirical research on prominent Mekong issues, and organized conferences/seminars to disseminate findings.
Short-term goal: To bring together senior policymakers for exchange, trust-building, and regional policy formulation; build a capacity-building platform for Mekong issue information and analysis; and establish a network of high-level officials, local leaders, academia, and entrepreneurs.
Long-term goal: To enhance relationships and understanding between Mekong people/countries and development partners through policy dialogue and research; optimize Mekong stakeholder mechanisms for sustainable development goals; and enhance the Mekong region's public image to attract more cooperation, investment, and research.
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