From September 22 to 26, 2025, the Settha Palace Hotel in Vientiane, Laos, hosted an important event — the CEBCAT Capacity Building Study Visit, aimed at supporting the transition toward a circular economy. The program brought together academics, practitioners, and stakeholders from various institutions to share knowledge, experiences, and updates on the CEBCAT project they are jointly implementing.

The first day began with registration and a warm opening session led by key figures, including the Vice Rector of NUoL and the CEBCAT Project Coordinator. Participants enthusiastically captured the moment with a group photo before moving on to the consortium meeting. The meeting focused on progress reports of different work packages presented by institutions such as USC, EuroTraining, ULBS, and others. The lively discussions reflected the strong commitment of all partners to ensuring smooth project implementation and development.

On the second day, the agenda centered on dissemination strategies and the delivery of capacity-building courses. Participants delved into technical aspects such as accreditation and project financial management, which are vital for the sustainability of the initiative. In addition to in-person meetings, an evaluation session with the External Advisory Committee was conducted virtually from Spain, further strengthening the project’s global network. The day concluded with strategic agreements to refine program execution.

The third day marked the highlight of the event with intensive training sessions on sustainability fundamentals and the circular economy, facilitated by experts from ULBS. Beyond theoretical insights, participants also engaged in cultural activities and networking opportunities, fostering stronger partnerships. Guest speakers from the European Union Delegation and French development institutions shared valuable perspectives on sustainable development in Laos. The evening’s official dinner created a warm atmosphere, reinforcing collaboration among participants.

Complementing the training and discussions, the study visit also introduced participants to Laos’s rich cultural heritage and significant local landmarks. This combination of knowledge-building and cultural immersion not only enhanced participants’ capacity but also deepened international networking—an essential element in accelerating the transition to a circular economy in Southeast Asia.

With its well-structured, intensive, and meaningful agenda, the CEBCAT Study Visit 2025 became a pivotal moment, inspiring cross-country collaboration to realize sustainable and environmentally friendly development. The outcomes of this visit are expected to be adopted and disseminated widely, contributing significantly to the future of the circular economy across the region.