Public support provides supplies for eight schools in Luang Prabang

Education is very important, as the enhancement of children’s skills is essential for the development of the country.
Many schools in remote areas need more educational equipment for their students, and schools in Nambak district, Luang Prabang province, are among those requiring assistance in this regard.
Monk Keovilay Sisanga from Somhong Temple in Hadxaifong district, Vientiane, was a schoolboy in the district when he was young, and knew all too well about the difficulties faced by the district in providing sufficient educational equipment for children.

Children show the books and pencils they were given.

He decided to do something to help and raised money from local residents and businesses to buy educational and sports equipment for use by teachers and students in eight primary schools in the district.
He is a strong supporter of education because he is convinced of its importance in building a strong foundation for development, and sees it as the groundwork on which Laos’ economic and social wellbeing is built.
He believes that education is the key to enhancing economic efficiency and social cohesion.
“Things such as books, pencils, pens and sports equipment are an important first step in advancing children’s progress on the road to development,” monk Keovilay said after he handed over supplies to officials in Nambak district.
He went to Luang Prabang province recently to hand over the items he had collected to eight primary schools in the district, located in Khan Loum, Khan Therng, Huay Kong, Na Yang Tai, Done Kham, Phonxay, Namla and Kong villages.
Speaking to Vientiane Times about the donation, he said he felt a strong desire to do something to help children in remote areas of Nambak district and was delighted when he saw their smiles after they were given the supplies.
“I was very pleased and honoured to be able to make this donation. I’d like to thank the teachers at the eight schools for their warm welcome, as well as the DDD Training Centre and local residents who donated to this good cause,” he said.
The kind monk began fundraising on February 1, when he asked local residents to donate money to buy supplies for the schools. In response, the DDD Training Centre donated 4.2 million kip, while other donations brought the total to more than 5.7 million kip.
He travelled to Nambak district on March 18 and handed out the supplies to the eight schools from March 21-28.
The schools also need money to buy fans, computers and paper, and to repair water pipes and other essential structures, while students living in poverty face many challenges.
“Children in remote areas need much more assistance, especially educational supplies, which are very important for their development so that they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to become people capable of taking Laos further along the path to development in the future. It is essential that we understand their needs and do something to help them,” monk Keovilay said.
“I hope that more people will join together to support education in Laos. I invite anyone interested in helping schools to call me on 020 58020850 and to come to Somhong Temple in Hadxaifong district, Vientiane,” he added.

ByViengdavanh Banphahaksa
(Latest Update April 19, 2022)