EDC has recently completed the first Web 2.0 course for the SMFEs in Vientiane. The course aimed to demonstrate the basics of the internet technology to the participants and to introduce the use of websites in marketing their products.

In the course, the participants learned how to develop the bamboo and rattan SMFEs in other countries like Indonesia (case of the Trangsan Village), Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Hongkong and Singapore. Then the participants visited interesting sites including FAO Forest Connect, International Bamboo and Rattan Network (INBAR), Solo Business as well as a new rattan design product called EggSofa.

The participants also learned how to post in the Lao Connect Website. Everyone got excited in the process of preparing their own website. It appears that they will continue working on their sites even after the course. The Danlao SMFE presented its own existing Web 1.0 type of site. The site was functional but not complete yet. The Danlao participants claimed that they will improve their site in the future. Both Vila and Visay were asked by Buakhai to follow-up the participants and assist them in developing the sites.

Yesterday May 2 at 5:30 pm, the management and staff of EDC initiated a Basi essentially as a gesture of thanks for a wonderful year that was and for a hope for a prosperous Lao New Year. This is an annual ritual that EDC conducts to insure prosperity and luck for the incoming year. The four managing partners and the entire staff were present together with some invited guests, the Mo Phone and the five monks.

The prayers and wishes for a prosperous New Year was sanctified by the Monk’s incantations in the background. It was a solemn and pious ceremony. The Monk’s blessed the entire EDC premises with the holy water to appease and good spirits and drive away the evil ones. Gifts to the spirits were offered together with special prayers and wishes.  Everyone had a change to wish everyone good fortunes in wealth, health, romance, peace, and happiness and shared the virtuous strings that each tied on their right wrists. It was a sublime  experience. One of the guests remarked that this is a fast track to prosperity.

The solemn event was followed by a sumptuous dinner where everyone had a chance to share the humble food and sweets prepared for the event. Everyone looks forward to a great year ahead of all.