Lao Student Successfully Defends MBA Master’s Thesis at UEF
During the Master’s thesis defense sessions for the Master of Business Administration program held from December 3 to 5, UEF marked a significant milestone as international student Ketchan Taiphop (Laos), Cohort 2023 successfully completed his defense with an impressive score of 8.4/10, concluding two years of dedicated and persistent study in Vietnam. He is also the first international Master’s student to defend a thesis at UEF.
This achievement not only reflects the student’s strong academic competence but also highlights the substantive value that UEF’s graduate education programs offer to international learners.
Student Ketchan Taiphop successfully completes his Master’s thesis defense at UEF.
With the research topic “Factors Influencing Consumers’ Decisions to Use Pharmacy Services in Sekong Province, Laos,” Ketchan Taiphop developed his study based on the practical context of the locality where he lives and works.
During the defense session, he demonstrated a solid understanding of the market, the ability to apply consumer behavior theory, and strong analytical thinking in addressing managerial challenges within Laos’s pharmaceutical sector. From data collection methods and sampling design to the systematization of theoretical frameworks and recommendations for improving pharmacy services, his project received positive evaluations from the review panel for its practical relevance and strong application-oriented approach.
The panel acknowledged the student’s careful preparation while also offering constructive insights that could help elevate the research for potential development at higher academic levels in the future.
Ketchan Taiphop listens attentively to the panel’s feedback and recommendations for further research development.
Reflecting on his journey through the master’s program, Ketchan Taiphop shared his pride and emotions:
“Before the defense, I was very nervous and made sure to prepare everything as thoroughly as possible. When it was over, I felt extremely happy. Looking back on the journey, I feel very proud.”
For an international student, language barriers, a new academic environment, and unfamiliar research approaches can present significant challenges. However, Ketchan noted that the dedicated support from faculty members and the welcoming campus environment helped him overcome these difficulties:
“The lecturers and classmates here are very friendly and supportive, always willing to help. Classes are organized in an engaging and interactive way, allowing everyone to learn while building strong connections. I have also made many new friends. The courses are highly practical, and I believe I will be able to apply what I have learned effectively in my future management work.”
For him, studying at UEF was a valuable experience that broadened his perspective, strengthened his managerial thinking, and helped him build an international professional network, factors he considers essential for enhancing professional capacity in the modern business environment.
UEF congratulates the international student on successfully completing his master’s journey after two years of dedicated effort.
After completing his master’s degree in Vietnam, Ketchan plans to return to Laos to begin his professional career and apply the knowledge gained from UEF’s training program. He also shared:
“I would like to gain more practical experience in Laos and apply what I have learned. Once I have accumulated sufficient professional experience, I plan to return to Vietnam to pursue a doctoral degree, and UEF will certainly be my top choice.”
UEF congratulates international student Ketchan Taiphop on this well-deserved achievement and looks forward to seeing him continue to advance on his academic and professional journey. The UEF community hopes to welcome him back at the next important milestone of his career.
