(KPL) The Governments of Germany and the European Union have donated modern educational IT equipment to the Faculty of Forest Science at the National University of Laos, aimed at strengthening forestry education and environmental management capacity.

The handover ceremony was held on January 12, 2026, and was led by the European Union Ambassador to Laos, Mark Gallagher. The equipment was officially received by Professor Dr. Sithong Thongmanivong, Head of the Faculty of Forest Science, in the presence of relevant stakeholders, faculty members, and students.

The support was provided through the Protection and Sustainable Use of Forest Ecosystems and Biodiversity, or ProFEB project, implemented by GIZ. The total value of the assistance amounts to 1.15 billion Lao Kip and is expected to benefit around 200 students and teachers.

The donated equipment is intended to modernize forestry education and enhance the use of digital technologies, including Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing, which play a vital role in monitoring forest resources, protecting biodiversity, and addressing challenges such as illegal logging.

Speaking at the event, Michaela Henning, Deputy Head of the Southeast Asia Division of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, said the support aims to strengthen the capacity of the younger generation to responsibly manage natural resources and respond to real-world environmental challenges.

EU Ambassador Mark Gallagher emphasized that the donation reflects the strong partnership between Laos, Germany, and the European Union, and supports the long-term development of the Lao forestry sector through innovation and sustainable practices.

Following the ceremony, the delegation visited the newly established GIS and Remote Sensing laboratory, where students and teachers demonstrated the practical application of the new IT equipment in forestry education and research.

KPL