(KPL) Representatives from secondary schools across Vientiane gathered at the National Blood Centre of the Lao Red Cross on Dec 25 to review voluntary blood donation efforts over the past year and outline goals for 2025.

Key figures from the education and healthcare sectors attended the meeting, highlighting the collaborative nature of the initiative.

Among the prominent attendees were Mr. Souphab Khounvixay, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Sports; Mr. Bounthan Sengmany, Deputy Director of the Vientiane Education and Sports Department; and Dr. Chanthala Suksakhone, Director of the National Blood Centre.

Dr. Chanthala noted that the meeting aimed to evaluate efforts to mobilize blood donors from both public and private secondary schools in Vientiane. The focus was on celebrating achievements, addressing challenges, and setting strategic goals for continuous improvement.

For 2025, the department aims to collect over 4,700 blood bags through 150 blood drives, targeting around 6,000 participants. A participatory approach will be key to achieving these goals and fostering consistent blood donation throughout the year.

In 2024, 112 blood donation events were held, attracting 2,560 participants, with 1,966 successfully donating blood. Although this fell short of the target of 4,676 donations, the department remains dedicated to increasing engagement and improving results in the coming year.

The 2025 strategy includes hosting 3–4 donation events during significant occasions and organizing 1–2 training sessions or meetings for youth volunteers. The event also recognized schools that excelled in mobilizing blood donors in 2024, acknowledging their crucial role in supporting the initiative.

This program reflects Vientiane’s commitment to fostering a culture of voluntary blood donation and ensuring a stable and sufficient blood supply to support healthcare needs in society.

KPL