Luang Namtha:Affected primary schools in Luang Namtha and Oudomxay provinces will receive vital educational materials to help teachers and students resume learning after severe flash floods.
According to Lao News Agency, the heavy rains on August 29 and 30, 2026, led to flash floods that severely impacted schools in northern Lao PDR, damaging textbooks and school infrastructure. Over 40 educational institutions were affected, with primary schools being the most impacted.
The Ministry of Education and Sports of Lao PDR, with the support of Australia and Japan, has initiated an emergency response to replace lost educational materials. Australia, through the BEQUAL program, is providing 3,651 textbooks for core subjects and additional educational supplies. Meanwhile, Japan, through JICA, is supplying 2,692 primary Mathematics textbooks.
On October 13, 2026, the materials were officially handed over by representatives from the Australian Embassy and JICA to the Ministry of Education and Sports of Lao PDR. The Ministry has also allocated funds for reconstruction efforts in the most affected areas.
Mr. Vilayphone Phommahaxay expressed gratitude for the international support, emphasizing the importance of continuing education despite the challenges posed by natural disasters. Mr. Michael Currie and Mr. Nobuyuki Kobe highlighted the strong partnerships and commitment to supporting educational recovery in the region.