(KPL)  On March 19, Vientiane Secondary School on Thursday celebrated the 56th International Francophonie Day with an arts festival, highlighting strong academic results and continued growth of its Lao–French bilingual program.

The event also marked the 35th anniversary of Laos’ membership in the International Organization of La Francophonie and the 31st anniversary of the bilingual program.

Officials in attendance included Phetsamone Keovongvichith, Jacques Baron, Khansay Sengsouny and Chanthakhane Lattana, along with teachers and students.

School Director Thongphan Oulaithone said the program now serves 412 students with 16 teachers, delivering instruction in French across subjects including mathematics and science.

He said the 2024–2025 academic year recorded a 100% pass rate for both Grade 4 (M.4) and Grade 7 (M.7).

Several students received recognition for academic excellence, including Soukphansa Phommalangsy, who placed first nationally in mathematics, and Sengsouliya Thesany, who earned top placements in physics at district and provincial levels. Five students were also awarded “Red Diplomas” for outstanding performance.

The school said 14 teachers recently completed intensive training in language and pedagogy, while six mathematics teachers received additional instruction in computer-assisted teaching methods.

Cultural exchange activities remain a key part of the program, with nearly 300 students participating in Lao–French events. Two students and one teacher also represented the school at an international youth forum in Vietnam.

Officials said the program continues to play an important role in preparing Lao students for global opportunities through language and cultural education.

KPL