Our History

The journey of ARDA in empowering communities in Laos since 1991

1991

The Foundation

Initial proposal sent to Investment Committee to establish a language school in Laos.

1992

Official Opening

Received permission to start school and established in Anou Village, Vientiane Capital.

1994-96

Transformation & Growth

School temporarily closed when director returned to Australia. Reopened in Khountatong Village, Sikottabong District. Shifted focus from children to adult learners (16+) and implemented a three-term annual system.

2004

Luang Prabang Branch

Opened the first branch outside Vientiane in Luang Prabang Province.

2005

HOPE Centre

Established HOPE centre for street kids and children from low-income backgrounds. Provided lunch, Lao and English lessons, and skills training.

2006

Skills Vocational Centre

Created Skills Vocational Centre in Wattay Noi Village. Offered vocational training for girls (housekeeping) and boys (electrical/building skills).

2007

Southern Expansion

Changed to two-semester system in January. Opened branch in Pakse, Champasak Province in March.

2008

Lao Language for Foreigners

Started teaching Lao Language to foreigners in Luang Prabang and then in the other Centres.

2012

Children's Programs

Started teaching children aged 9-13 at the Pakse branch.

2017

Savannakhet

Opened branch in Savannakhet City, Savannakhet Province - where we are today!

2019

Savannakhet Centre opened

The Savannakhet Centre opened to serve central Laos with academic and professional language programs.

2024

Hope Centre transitioned into a separate organization after a 20-year partnership.

Hope Centre has transitioned into an independent organization after 20 years of successful partnership. We remain dedicated to serving the community and creating positive long-term impact.

2025

Chinese Language Program in Savannakhet

Started teaching Chinese (Mandarin) in Savannakhet.

2026

Chinese Language Program in Luang Prabang

ARDA began teaching Chinese language courses at the Luang Prabang Centre, expanding the program beyond English and Lao instruction.