Children’s Day Celebration in Laos - Phengkham's Story

“I am enjoying the Children’s Day Celebration,” said Phengkham, 15, an event she participated in last June.“This is my first visit in Ngoi District and if not for this celebration I would not have come to this beautiful place,” says Phengkham, a secondary student in year 5 in Phoukhoun district.

World Vision together with local authorities from Phonethong, Viengkham, Ngoi, PakOu, Phonexay, Pakxieng, XiengNgeun and Phoukhoun districts in Luangprabang Province, gathered over a hundred children to celebrate Children’s Day last June, 2013

“This is good opportunity for children to learn and show their talents and help them improve theirparticipation because children are the future of the nation. Children’s Day Celebration gives them the chance to share their experiences and build good relationships among the children.It’s a great opportunity for the children in remote areas,” says MrBounsomKhounmany, Ngoi district governor.

The event was very festive as many activities were conducted such as singing, dancing, drama, and reading books provided by special partner, Room to Read. There were also culturalprograms showing handiwork like weaving products, table cloths, traditional clothes, and Lao skirts.Some children shared their culture by singing ethnic songs in their own language.

At first, Phengkhamwas very shy and afraid of standing in front a crowd.“My body was shaking before I started to speak in front of many people.” But she was brave. “I learned a new skill by being the MC! “I learned I should also be ready to learn new experiences and take the action. I am more confident to talk,” Phengkham adds.

The children took part in clinics where they were able to learn about different subjects such as education, health, food security, and child protection.

“It was a good chance for the children from eight districts to learn new things together and bring experience to develop their skills, especially learning about Child Rights and Child Participation,” says Touykeo Sayashane, from the World Vision Area Development Programme (ADP) in Ngoi district. He also expressed sincere thank you to World Vision as well as authority from district and target villages for their good cooperation to make this event happen.

Many of the children were able to gain new friends. “Now I have a new friend from called Vanhxay from Viengkham district and Vannaly from Ngoi district,” says Phengkham.“I would like to encourage all of you use your talents to develop your skills for a better future after Children’s Day Celebration, “ says Ms. Amelia MERRICK, National Director World Vision Lao PDR.