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VIENTIANE (Vientiane News/ANN): Senior officials from the Laos Ministry of Planning and Investment and Unicef have highlighted the success of cooperation in projects helping to improve the quality of life of mothers and children and the useful work done by youth reporters in Savannakhet province.
Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Mrs Phonevanh Outhavong, together with UNICEF Representative to Laos, Dr Pia Rebello Britto, paid an official visit to Savannakhet to observe and evaluate the work of the government and mass organisations involved in these projects.
The delegation’s visit focused on the innovative parenting support programme, “Love and Care for Every Child”, which promotes positive parenting and youth advocacy through the work of young reporters.
Guided by the Vice President of the Lao Women’s Union, Lavanh Southisane, the delegates witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of the initiative.
The programme, targeting children under seven across Laos, emphasises the importance of parenting in child development.
“The project covers crucial topics such as maternal and newborn health, sexual and reproductive health, breastfeeding, and nutrition,” Ms Lavanh said
“These topics are publicised through various media channels, including guidebooks, storybooks, videos, and audio recordings that have impacted over 40,000 families,” she added.
Deputy Minister Phonevanh also met youth reporters to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Lao National Radio’s Youth Media programme, led by the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism and Lao National Radio, with UNICEF’s support.
This year, the initiative is promoting education through the Kangpanya Lao platform, supported by the European Union, and raising awareness about the importance of immunisation.
“Empowering young people to use their voices is crucial for our country’s development. Their role in promoting education and health initiatives is vital,” Phonevanh said.
The visit also marked Dr Pia Rebello Britto’s final high-level engagement as UNICEF Representative to Laos. Returning to the province where she began her tenure four years ago, she voiced her thoughts on the youth media initiative.
“The 20-year journey of this initiative is a testament to the power of partnership and the impact of giving young people a platform to express themselves,” she said.
“The dedication of our young reporters to promoting critical issues is inspiring. Their efforts are instrumental in driving positive change,” Dr Britto added.
As Laos continues to prioritise education and health, the partnership between the government, UNICEF, and other international development partners remains essential in promoting human capital.
The focus on digital learning and immunisation is part of a broader strategy to ensure that children and young people have access to quality education and healthcare services.
UNICEF and its partners are committed to supporting the government’s efforts, creating an environment where every child in Laos can thrive.
The visiting delegation also met the Deputy Governor of Savannakhet province, Sanesack Soulisack, to discuss past achievements and explore future opportunities for collaboration in the province. - Vientiane Times/ANN
