Vice President Mrs Pany Yathotou, other government leaders and members of the public on Monday offer alms to monks during the Sikhottabong Stupa Festival in Khammuan province.      --Photo Pathetlao

Japanese Ambassador to Laos Mr Koizumi Tsutomu on Friday hands over the newly constructed Nongteua health centre to Champasak provincial authorities. The health centre, which was built in Champasak district at a cost of US$66,599, was funded by grant assistance from the Japanese government and people. The centre will provide health services for the residents of 13 villages. --Photo Champamai newspaper

Vientiane province’s Federation of Trade Unions on Monday hosts a blood donation drive to boost blood stocks and mark the 70th anniversary of the Lao Federation of Trade Unions. --Photo Pathetlao

The 13th Haeram Overseas Volunteer Corps from Gangneung-Wonju National University (GWNU) in the Republic of Korea arrived in Vientiane last week. During their nine-day stay, the group, which comprises 25 students and faculty members, will provide educational, medical, and cultural services at Somsanmai Elementary School. The initiative was made possible through coordination with the Saemaul Undong Centre in Laos. This partnership underscores GWNU’s commitment to expanding its global social contribution model, which has seen over 900 volunteers dispatched to various countries since 2007. The programme features dental care, Korean language and taekwondo classes, and activities like tree planting and mural painting. President Deok-young Park said the mission allows students to apply their knowledge to real-life situations. GWNU recently received an award from the Korean University Council for Social Service.