The Global Health Project in Lao PDR represents collaboration between Chiang Mai University, the Department of Livestock Development (Thailand), the Department of Livestock and Fisheries (Lao PDR), Opendream Co., Ltd., and international partners. The initiative focuses on using digital surveillance tools to strengthen early detection and rapid response capacity against zoonotic and animal diseases.

From 7 to 9 November 2023, a three-day training workshop was held in Bolikhamxai Province, Lao PDR. The activities were divided into:

  1. Day 1: Training of Trainers (ToT)
    Trainers from central and district levels were equipped with knowledge about major animal diseases, the PODD surveillance structure, and the use of the mobile application (OHTK). Role plays and simulation exercises helped prepare them to train and supervise local reporters.

  2. Day 2–3: Reporter Training
    Reporter training was conducted in two districts: Pakxan (8 November) and Thaphabat (9 November). Nearly 70 participants, most of whom were village leaders and animal health volunteers, learned to identify abnormal animal symptoms, install and use the PODD mobile application, and submit both event reports and daily “zero reports” to strengthen routine surveillance.

 

The training combined lectures, demonstrations, and practice sessions to ensure participants could effectively use the system for reporting, follow-up, and communication with district administrators.

Outcomes

  • Participants: About 100 people, including trainers and reporters, joined the training.

  • Practical Impact: By November 21, 2023, the system had already recorded 10 event reports, 7 of which met case criteria and were investigated by district admins.

  • Challenges & Solutions:

    • Differences in IT skills among reporters were addressed by extra practice sessions.

    • Username and account management issues were resolved by introducing simplified username structures in Lao language.

    • Duplicate accounts were flagged for admin management.

The training strengthened the foundation for community-based surveillance in Lao PDR, aiming to recruit 500 reporters across five provinces. The program demonstrated how collaboration, digital tools, and local engagement can make animal disease surveillance more responsive and effective.