Preparations are well underway in Sekong Province as it readies itself to host the 8th National Secondary School Games in 2027.

Local authorities have recently finalised key cultural symbols for the event, selecting a wind turbine as the official logo and the "Pa Wa Kham" (Golden Wa Fish) as the mascot.

Mr Kamphai Simmavanh, Director of the Provincial Education and Sports Department, reported that the competition will feature 13 sports with 456 medals up for grabs across 135 events. Each province is permitted to send a delegation of up to 394 members, including athletes and coaches.

To support the event, a budget exceeding 48 billion kip has been proposed to the Ministry of Finance, pending National Assembly approval. These funds are earmarked for infrastructure and the management of ten specialised committees.

Significant progress has been made on physical infrastructure. Renovation of the athletics track, which began in August 2025, is 70% complete in its concreting phase, with synthetic surfacing and painting to follow. Officials have designated eight venues for the various competitions, utilising both existing provincial facilities and school sports halls.

The province has identified 17 residential centres comprising 46 buildings and over 300 rooms, capable of housing 4,262 participants. To accommodate officials and spectators, Sekong’s capital, Lamam, offers a growing hospitality sector featuring 26 hotels and guesthouses, alongside dozens of restaurants.

Moving forward, the provincial administration will coordinate with national sub-committees to finalise competition regulations and oversee the completion of the opening and closing ceremony venues, ensuring Sekong is fully prepared for a successful tournament.

KPL