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.
To convene high-level policymakers for exchanging views, building mutual understanding, and developing policy options for proactive regional planning and coordinated management
To serve as a capacity-building platform and a resource for information/analysis on critical Mekong issues of common interest.
To establish and promote a network of Mekong high-level, provincial/local leaders, academia, and entrepreneurs.
To foster better relations and understanding among the people and nations of the Mekong region and development partners through high-level policy dialogues and cooperative studies.
To streamline and synergize Mekong-related stakeholder mechanisms/forums to maximize inputs and achieve common sustainable development objectives.
To enhance the public profile of the Mekong region to attract further cooperation, investment, and research from international partners.
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.
