Laos and Vietnam Forge Partnership in Child Protection Education

Laos and Vietnam have signed a new cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening child protection in early childhood education. The agreement was signed on July 28 at the Ministry of Education and Sports by Chompaeng Vongsa, Director General of the Department of Early Childhood Education, and Tran Thi Que Chi, Deputy Director of the Vietnamese institute. The project will be implemented over five years and nine months, from 2026 to 2031. Laovan Vongkhamsan, Head of the Ministry of Education and Sports Office, stated that the "ERA Kids" curriculum is an innovative program that will be integrated into preschool education nationwide. He emphasized the importance of close cooperation among central and local authorities, teachers, and caregivers in reviewing, translating, and adapting the materials to align with Laos' national preschool curriculum. The program is designed to strengthen children's life skills and improve their protection from sexual abuse and other risks, particularly in the digital age. Representatives from both sides expressed confidence that the partnership would enhance the quality of early childhood education while contributing to the long-term development of human resources. They also said the initiative reflects the enduring friendship, special solidarity, comprehensive cooperation, and strategic partnership between Laos and Vietnam. Laos has been strengthening its ties with Vietnam and China in recent years, seeking significant investment and support from these neighbors, particularly in economic development and infrastructure. The Lao People's Revolutionary Party, under a one-party system, carefully manages these relationships to maintain national stability and economic growth. This child protection education initiative marks a deepening of cooperation between the two countries in the social development sector.