Emergency Training Equips Lao Youth for Climate Threats in Luang Namtha

LUANG NAMTHA, January 13, 2025 — The Lao Youth Union (LYU), in partnership with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE), the National University of Lao PDR, Vientiane Rescue, and UNICEF Lao PDR, has launched Sinxay Emergency Training to equip young volunteers in Luang Namtha with the skills they need to respond more effectively to climate-fueled disasters.

Luang Namtha was one of the provinces hardest hit by last year’s Typhoon Yagi, which affected over 250,000 people across the country. The training will build the capacity of 31 volunteers from five high-risk districts through instruction in disaster preparedness, first aid, and mental health support. The volunteers will then conduct community outreach activities reaching more than 1,200 people.

“The Lao Youth Union is proud to lead this initiative with the support of UNICEF and MONRE,” said H.E. Mr. Nuanthong Suvanvixay, Deputy Secretary of the Lao Youth Union. “By equipping our youth with disaster-response and climate-adaptation skills, we can foster stronger, more resilient communities.”

The workshop, led by LYU, MONRE, and Vientiane Rescue, features practical disaster-relief exercises and will conclude with awareness activities in local schools and communities.

“This collaboration underscores the critical role of young people in tackling climate change,” said Mr. Simon Nazer, Chief of Communication and Advocacy for UNICEF Lao PDR. “By providing them with practical, hands-on training, we’re ensuring they can lead when their communities need them most.”

Building on earlier Project Sinxay efforts—including UPSHIFT and Youth Champions—the program aims to spur youth-led innovation and advocacy to address climate challenges. In addition, UNICEF established four child-friendly spaces in Luang Namtha last year, partnering with the Lao Women’s Union and supported by USAID and the Government of Australia, further bolstering community resilience and recovery efforts.