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Over 100 students from six schools in Hadxayfong District gathered at the James Bond Badminton Club for a unique event blending sport, nutrition, and biodiversity education as part of the Ban Lao Project’s "Badminton Tournament and Banana Learning Day."
(KPL) Over 100 students from six schools in Hadxayfong District gathered at the James Bond Badminton Club for a unique event blending sport, nutrition, and biodiversity education as part of the Ban Lao Project’s "Badminton Tournament and Banana Learning Day."
Organised by CIRAD and funded by the Equipe France Funds through the French Embassy in the Lao PDR, the event brought together students from Virathavone Secondary School, Mayouli School, Sengsamai School, Xaypanya School, and the French International School (LFIV). The initiative aims to promote healthy lifestyles and raise awareness about the rich banana biodiversity of the Lao PDR.
Bananas, known for being rich in potassium, fibre, and essential vitamins, were the nutritional highlight of the day—chosen for their accessibility and suitability as energy-boosting fuel for athletes. The Ban Lao Project creatively paired this nutritional message with badminton, one of the most popular sports among Lao youth.
The tournament featured mixed teams designed to ensure fairness and inclusivity by balancing skill levels. Students had the opportunity to learn professional techniques from Lao national team player Mr Vakhim Phonesack before competing in friendly inter-school matches. Prizes and medals were awarded to the top three teams during a lively ceremony attended by special guests, including Ms Nathalie Brat, Counsellor for Cooperation and Cultural Action at the French Embassy, and Mr Hoa Tran Quoc, the Ban Lao Project Coordinator.
Beyond the badminton courts, students engaged in interactive activities like banana quiz games, a banana variety photo exhibition, banana tastings, a fun photo booth, and live cooking demonstrations by a local chef. These activities encouraged students to learn more about the role of bananas in both diet and culture, emphasizing their importance to Lao biodiversity.
This event is part of the broader Ban Lao Project, which has already reached more than 350 students through educational activities earlier this year. By combining physical activity, food education, and cultural engagement, the project seeks to inspire the next generation to protect banana diversity and adopt healthier eating habits.
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