KPL
The National Blood Transfusion Center of the Lao Red Cross in collaboration with private secondary schools, convened its annual meeting to assess the results of the 2024 voluntary blood donation campaign and set out the action plan for 2025. The meeting was held at the National Blood Transfusion Center in Vientiane on May 12.
(KPL) The National Blood Transfusion Center of the Lao Red Cross in collaboration with private secondary schools, convened its annual meeting to assess the results of the 2024 voluntary blood donation campaign and set out the action plan for 2025. The meeting was held at the National Blood Transfusion Center in Vientiane on May 12.
The meeting was co-chaired by Dr. Chanthala Souksakhone, Head of the National Blood Transfusion Center, Mr Bounthan Sengmany, Deputy Head of the Vientiane Education and Sports Department and Mr Bounty Sitthinonthong, Vice President of the Lao Private Education Association and President of the Vientiane Private Education Association. Representatives from relevant sectors also participated.
Speaking at the event, Mr Bounthan Saengmanee noted that the economic difficulties Laos faced in 2024 affected many areas, including the national voluntary blood donation program. He acknowledged a significant decline in uncompensated blood donations at blood centers across the country. Nevertheless, collaborative efforts, particularly with private secondary schools in Vientiane Capital, resulted in some positive outcomes.
“Blood donation is a humanitarian act that saves lives and strengthens community solidarity,” Bounthan said, urging stakeholders to continue and enhance their contributions to ensure stable blood supplies nationwide.
Dr. Chanthala Soukhsakhone reported that in 2024, the national target for blood collection was set at 78,000 bags. The goal for secondary schools in Vientiane Capital was 4,676 bags; however, only 1,966 were collected—falling short by 2,710 bags or 42 percent.
Looking ahead, Dr. Chanthala announced that the National Assembly has approved a higher national target of 80,400 blood bags for 2025. Of this, 34,400 bags are expected to come from central-level organizations, including ministries and entities based in Vientiane Capital, while the remaining 46,000 bags are to be collected by provincial centers.
The annual meeting served as a platform to share experiences, discuss challenges, and reinforce cooperation between health and education sectors to mobilize young donors and strengthen the culture of voluntary, unpaid blood donation in Laos.
KPL
