VIENTIANE, June 6 (Xinhua) -- The number of secondary school students in Laos taking final exams for the 2024-2025 academic year has decreased to 110,922, a decline from over 115,500 in the 2023-2024 school year.
According to a report from the Lao Ministry of Education and Sports on Friday, 41,758 Grade 7 students are set to take their final exams this academic year, marking a decrease of 4,986 compared to the previous year.
One of the main reasons for the decrease is that some students drop out of school to seek employment, according to the report.
In the 2024-2025 school year, Laos has a total of 1,861 secondary schools nationwide, including 153 private institutions, nine schools more than the past year.
The Lao government is taking steps to increase school enrollment and reduce dropout rates by addressing factors affecting youth well-being. In collaboration with development partners, the Lao Ministry of Education and Sports will focus on expanding educational opportunities and promoting access to quality, inclusive education nationwide. ■
