Ban Phaxang, Khammouane November 24, 2018IMG 2023

Children in the Theun-Hinboun hydropower project area have been learning that there is more to school than classes and the standard curriculum, thanks to an educational enrichment project run by the Theun-Hinboun Power Company (THPC).

In partnership with Action with Lao Children (ALC) and the National Library, the company has sponsored art and drama activities in schools built by THPC for resettled and relocated communities in Khammouane and Bolikhamxay provinces.

At Phaxang village in Hinboun District, Khammouane, pupils from the primary and lower secondary schools gave public performances of dramas based on traditional and international folk stories, and also showcased Lao dances and songs. The District Education Office then presented children with books donated by THPC and selected by the National Library before all the schoolchildren and audience sat down to a meal provided by THPC.

Stalls around the school yard showcased books and educational posters donated to the library and staff room of the school by ALC and THPC, attracting dozens of children eager to check out the new books, as well as interested teachers and adults from the village.

The show at Phaxang followed similar events at Ban Phonthong in Bolikhamxay and Phousaat village in Khounkham District. Surapha Viravong, THPC’s Senior Manager for Livelihoods, Government and Community Affairs explained that the provision of arts courses and books formed part of THPC’s policy of enriching education beyond the normal textbooks.

“This approach helps motivate children to learn and to apply themselves at school,” she said. “By stimulating their curiosity and imaginations, and by giving them an opportunity for expression, we can help school children and teachers approach each day at school with more enthusiasm, giving everyone a better chance of enjoying school and learning more. The reading promotion and enrichment activities that THPC support has a very positive effect on education improvement in the villages".IMG 1891

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