(KPL) The Lao education sector achieved notable progress during the 2024–2025 academic year, marking a transition toward higher quality standards across all levels of education, from early childhood to higher education.

The achievements were highlighted by the Minister of Education and Sports, Mr. Thongsalith Mangnormek, at the 2nd Government Open Meeting of 2025, held on January 12, 2026. The minister reported that the ministry has implemented key reforms aimed at modernizing curricula, strengthening human resources, and improving the welfare of teachers nationwide.

During the past academic year, the ministry integrated vocational skills into general education by developing new curricula and textbooks for 11 vocational fields, including beauty therapy, electrical repair, refrigeration, agricultural processing, electric motorcycle maintenance, and garment production. These efforts are intended to better align education with labor market needs.

To address teacher shortages in remote and rural areas, the ministry organized four training programs for personnel and soldiers to support primary education as teaching assistants. In higher education, 27 curricula were revised and updated to meet current academic and professional standards.

The sports sector also recorded success, with Lao athletes earning medals at regional and international competitions, reflecting continued development in physical education and sports training.

A major structural reform underway is the transition of the general education system from the 5+4+3 structure to a new 6+3+3 system. The ministry reported steady progress in research and preparation for full implementation.

Significant advances were also made in resolving long-standing personnel issues. The status of more than 4,000 volunteer teachers has been addressed, and a major restructuring of the teacher salary system has been completed. Beginning in January 2026, teachers will move to a new administrative salary structure with improved base pay and increased allowances, in coordination with the Ministry of Finance.

Looking ahead to 2026, the Ministry of Education and Sports will focus on priorities under the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan. Key objectives include completing the implementation of the 6+3+3 education system, reducing multi-grade classrooms, upgrading teacher training colleges into regional Teacher Education Institutes, and expanding ethnic boarding schools to promote inclusive and equitable access to quality education.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to translating national policies into practical outcomes that contribute to human resource development and long-term national growth.

KPL