Speaking during the First Extraordinary Session of the 10th National Assembly on July 8, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education and Sports Thongsalith Mangnomek outlined the ministry's priorities in response to questions from National Assembly members.
He said the ministry will expand school lunch programmes to more remote communities while promoting village-based agricultural production to provide sustainable food supplies for schools. Nutrition, hygiene and food safety education will also be strengthened to improve children's health, encourage school attendance and reduce dropout rates.
The ministry will continue reforming early childhood education by improving the pre-primary curriculum and expanding primary education to Grade 6, providing children with a stronger foundation before entering secondary school. Non-formal education centres will also be strengthened to help students who have left the formal education system continue their studies.
To improve educational opportunities, the ministry will increase scholarships for students from poor families, disadvantaged children and children with disabilities. Additional student dormitories and essential facilities will be developed in remote areas to reduce travel barriers and improve school attendance.
Thongsalith said the ministry will also strengthen teacher development through continuous professional training, improve school supervision, and expand the use of digital learning platforms, including the Khang Panya Lao (Lao Wisdom Bank), to enhance teaching quality.
The ministry will further promote community participation through village education development committees, expand library services, strengthen inclusive education, and implement child protection and anti-human trafficking measures to ensure schools provide safe and supportive learning environments.
The minister said these initiatives are intended to narrow the education gap between rural and urban areas while improving learning outcomes nationwide.

KPL