(KPL) In a collaborative effort to support the recovery of education services in flood-affected areas of the Lao PDR, UNICEF, the Governments of Australia, Norway and the United States through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) have handed over learning kits to the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES).

The kits, aimed at benefiting 1,653 children(ECE, grade 1 and 2) , were officially presented to the Deputy Minister of Education and Sports Dr. Samlane Phankhavong at a ceremony attended by representatives from the Embassy of Australia, USAID and UNICEF Lao PDR.

On 7 September Typhoon Yagi, the strongest storm in the region in decades, made landfall in Northern Lao PDR. An estimated 200,000 people, including at least 48,500 children, have been impacted, with at least 24,000 children in need of critical support.The closure of an estimated 77 schools due to flooding has left thousands of children without access to education, disrupting their learning and psychosocial well-being. There is an urgent need to deliver teaching and learning supplies, including school kits.

The provided schooling kits are specially designed at the request of the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) to meet the needs of early childhood education and primary school children. These kits include essential items such as backpacks, writing books, pencils, crayons, other learning materials, and hygiene products.

This initiative is part of a broader commitment to support the Lao PDR in building resilient education systems and ensuring that no child is left behind during times of crisis.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Samlane Phankhavong, expressed gratitude for the international support, emphasizing that "the schooling kits are a vital resource for our students as they work to recover from the disruptions caused by the floods. We deeply appreciate the support from UNICEF, Australia, Norway and the US, which is helping to ensure that education remains a priority during these challenging times."

Ms. Benita Sommerville, Australia’s Deputy Head of Mission, highlighted Australia's dedication to supporting the Lao PDR, stating, "Australia is proud to stand alongside the Lao PDR in times of need. Together with UNICEF, US, and Norway, we are committed to making sure that children can continue their education despite the challenges they face due to the floods."

Ms. Heather Variava, U.S. Ambassador to the Lao PDR, emphasized the role of education in disaster recovery and expressed appreciation to the expanding partnership between the United States, the Lao PDR and partners in the education sector. "Education plays a crucial role in disaster recovery, and the US government is pleased to collaborate with our partners in providing the necessary resources to help children return to school. These kits are more than just supplies; they represent hope and stability for the future," said Ambassador Variava. “On behalf of the American People, USAID is committed to investing in Lao children’s education, preparing a pathway for success in school and in their future.”

Mr. Bilal Aurang Zeb Durrani, UNICEF Country Representative to the Lao PDR, reiterated UNICEF’s commitment to ensuring that children’s educational needs are met, saying, "Education is a fundamental right of every child, and it should never be compromised, even in emergencies. With the support of Australia, the US and Norway, we are ensuring that children in the Lao PDR have the tools they need to continue their learning journey and stay resilient in the face of adversity."

The distribution of these kits is a key part of the ongoing response to support flood-affected communities in the Lao PDR. UNICEF, in partnership with MoES, will continue to work closely with local authorities and international partners to ensure that children’s educational needs are met, and that recovery efforts prioritize sustainable development and resilience building.

KPL