(KPL) ASEAN Educational Ministerial Meeting on early-childhood preparedness for climate change: early-childhood education for sustainability in the future was held in Vientiane today.

Chaired by Minister of Education and Sports of Laos Phout Simmalavong, the meeting was attended by ASEAN Secretary General Kao Kim Hourn, educational ministers of ASEAN member states, Timor-Leste and relevant organizations. 

“Since Laos’ ASEAN chairmanship in 2012, our cooperation has constantly witnessed achievements, especially those on education, early childhood care and education,” said chairman of the meeting. 

ASEAN member states have implemented and furthered their commitment to implementing the statement of ASEAN leaders on early childhood care and education which was approved in July, 2023 in Jakarta, Indonesia, according to Minister of Education and Sports Phout Simmalavong.

“We have worked together and will continue to work together to move forward in line with the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and ASEAN Education Cooperation Plan 2021-2025 and we need to work closely together to strengthen and enhance the prosperity of our community. Our education sector in ASEAN is recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic,” said the minister.

He pointed out that climate change remains key issue affecting educational development. “This indicates that it is necessary to increase our preparedness and comprehensive cooperation to address the issue in various areas in the future.”

“Today meeting is a good opportunity for us to find ways to enhance and strengthen ASEAN Community through effectively implementing the ASEAN Education Cooperation Plan 2021-2025, ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and Blueprints of ASEAN’s three pillars. It also provides us with the opportunity to discuss and exchange points of view on regional and international issues of common interest and concern.”

KPL