A few years ago, the concept of non-formal education was virtually unknown in the Lao People's Democratic Republic. Today, however, many understand the importance and relevance of non-formal education activities. This evolution is due to the implementation in several Laotian provinces of "Women's Literacy and Basic Skills Training," a project launched in 1994 by UNESCO with Norwegian funding. In the Lao People's Democratic Republic, schooling opportunities for girls have been limited for a long time. This is especially true for girls from ethnic minorities and those who live in some of the numerous isolated and mountainous regions. By implementing non-formal educational activities, this project, widely-known as 504/LAQ/11, has proved that it is possible to transmit basic knowledge, both general and technical, to young women who otherwise would have no access to education. (LB)