The opening ceremony was attended by Mr. Souliya Keophilavong, Deputy Secretary of the Committee of the LYU, and Mr. Kambiz Kabiri, Officer-in-Charge of UNFPA, along with representatives from government agencies, embassies, development partners, international organizations, the private sector, educational institutions, associations, the media, and youth groups.
The theme highlights that while young people live in different environments and face different circumstances, they share common aspirations, including access to quality education, decent employment, good health, equal opportunities, and meaningful participation in shaping their futures.

The event brought together youth representatives from diverse backgrounds, with particular attention to the voices of young women and girls, youth with disabilities, ethnic youth, and young people living in rural and remote areas.
Mr. Souliya Keophilavong said children and young people are a crucial driving force for national development, bringing creativity, energy and new perspectives to their families, communities and society. He reaffirmed the LYU’s commitment to working with young people and partners to listen to their voices, strengthen their capabilities and create opportunities for them to contribute to the country’s future.
Activities included an interactive stage performance created and presented by young people, addressing issues such as education, employment, digital access, climate change adaptation and mental health. A dialogue between youth and policymakers also provided an opportunity to exchange views and highlight issues affecting young people’s livelihoods and future prospects.

The event also reviewed the outcomes of the 2024 ASEAN Youth Dialogue held in Luang Prabang Province and provided an update on progress in implementing the Youth and Adolescent Development Strategy 2021–2030.
Mr. Kambiz Kabiri emphasized that fulfilling young people’s aspirations requires action from both youth and institutions. He encouraged young people to be proactive, develop new skills, speak up and take ownership of their lives and communities, while calling on governments and institutions to create an enabling environment where all young people can participate equally in education, employment, health and public life.

An educational exhibition featuring booths from youth-led organizations, government agencies, development partners, educational institutions, civil society organizations and private-sector entities was also held. The exhibition provided opportunities to exchange information, learn about available services, explore new initiatives and showcase youth-led ideas and solutions.
The commemoration was supported by pre- and post-event activities, including social media campaigns and youth-led activities in several provinces with support from UNFPA.
The event highlighted the important role of Lao adolescents and youth as leaders, innovators, community developers, climate action advocates and entrepreneurs. The LYU, UNFPA and their partners will continue working with young people to expand inclusive opportunities and ensure that youth are recognized as beneficiaries, partners and leaders in national development.