Lao youth project trains over 1,000 with skills for the future
Project Sinxay, led by the Lao Youth Union with support from UNICEF, has reached more than 1,000 adolescents and young people in less than a year across the country.
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Vientiane, Lao PDR, 29 September 2025 — Project Sinxay, led by the Lao Youth Union with support from UNICEF, has reached more than 1,000 adolescents and young people in less than a year across Vientiane, Savannakhet, Luang Prabang and Xiengkhouang. Participants learned practical skills in innovation, entrepreneurship, digital tools including AI, leadership and advocacy, and have already started community projects on waste reduction, clean water, school inclusion and mental health.
“Lao youth have ideas and drive. Through Project Sinxay we are giving them the skills, mentoring and small grants they need to turn ideas into real solutions for their communities. We will expand this work so that more young people can learn, earn and lead,” said Mr Thongly Sisoulith, Secretary General of the Lao Youth Union.
At the core of Project Sinxay is UPSHIFT – UNICEF’s social innovation programme delivered with financial support from U.K. tech company Arm. It gives young people simple, hands-on training, mentoring and small seed grants so they can test ideas and make them work.
Alongside this, the Youth Champions track builds the confidence and skills of young leaders to advocate on issues that matter to them – from girls speaking out on child marriage to campaigns for safer schools, better inclusion and cleaner environments.
Together, these tracks help young people not only create solutions but also influence change with local authorities and decision-makers.
“When young people gain problem-solving and digital skills and start micro-projects, they create value for their communities and the economy. UNICEF will continue to support the Lao Youth Union to expand opportunities for youth across the country,” said Mr Bilal Aurang Zeb Durrani, UNICEF Country Representative to Lao PDR.
Phase two of Project Sinxay will start soon in Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Savannakhet, with more locations to follow. It will put extra focus on using AI as a tool for climate resilient and nature-based solutions, youth enterprise, and measurable community results.
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