Dr. Souphany Heuangkeo

Deputy Director of Road Passenger Transport - Lao PDR - ASLIP 2024

Currently Dr. Souphany Heuangkeo serving as the Deputy Director of the Land Passenger Transport Division in the Ministry of Works and Transport of Lao PDR, she has managed urban transport projects in collaboration with ASEAN nations, international development organizations, and financial institutions since 2012. Her objective is to foster sustainable urban transport systems in Lao PDR. She holds a PhD in Urban Innovation from Yokohama National University, where her research focused on promoting public transport ridership in Vientiane and developing sustainable transport policies for least-developed countries. Her commitment to continuous learning is evident through her participation in The ASEAN Sustainable Leadership in Infrastructure Programme 2024 of University of Cambridge Institute. 

What were the highlights and key takeaways from ASLIP 2024? 

The ASEAN Sustainable Leadership in Infrastructure Programme 2024 provided valuable insights into the complexities of sustainable infrastructure development. Key highlights included the focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance principles, innovative financing mechanisms, and effective stakeholder engagement. The program fostered a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in developing sustainable infrastructure within the ASEAN context. A crucial takeaway was the importance of systems thinking and integrated planning to address the interconnectedness of infrastructure systems and their impact on the broader environment and society. 

How have you integrated the knowledge and skills you've gained into your current role? 

The knowledge and skills gained from ASLIP 2024 have significantly influenced my approach to infrastructure development in my current role. I have integrated ESG considerations into project evaluations, ensuring that environmental and social impacts are thoroughly assessed. The program's emphasis on stakeholder engagement has enhanced my ability to build consensus and foster collaboration among diverse groups, leading to more inclusive and sustainable outcomes. Furthermore, the principles of systems thinking have enabled me to adopt a more holistic perspective, considering the long-term implications of infrastructure projects on the surrounding communities and ecosystems. 

What advice would you offer future participants to help them make the most of their experience?

To fully benefit from the ASLIP experience, future participants should actively engage in discussions, share their experiences, and build strong relationships with fellow participants and faculty. It's crucial to approach the program with an open mind and a willingness to challenge conventional thinking. Participants should actively seek opportunities to apply the concepts learned during the program to their own work contexts, thereby reinforcing their understanding and maximizing the practical application of the knowledge gained. Finally, staying connected with the ASLIP network after the program can provide ongoing support and facilitate continued learning and professional growth in the field of sustainable infrastructure. 
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