VIENTIANE, May 18 (Xinhua) -- Laos has launched a nationwide campaign to promote Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) among young people, aiming to better align students' career choices with the country's growing demand for skilled workers.

The initiative, led by the Lao Ministry of Education and Sports as part of the Skills for Tourism, Agriculture and Forestry (STAF) Program, officially began on May 15 at Vientiane Secondary School in Lao capital Vientiane.

Authorities plan to expand the campaign to at least nine provinces during 2026 and 2027, with upcoming activities scheduled in Bolikhamxay and Vientiane provinces. The ministry aims to reach around 150,000 people nationwide.

A key focus of the program is to increase access to vocational education for young women and disadvantaged groups, ensuring broader participation in skilled employment opportunities.

To support the promotion of vocational education, the ministry has launched the TVET Development Fund to expand access to vocational education and training for disadvantaged and low-income people in Laos.

The fund was officially introduced during a meeting of its management board held in Vientiane on April 7, where officials discussed plans to strengthen vocational education development nationwide.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Education and Sports Dalavone Kittiphan said the fund would play an important role in improving vocational education and workforce development across the country.

She said the fund aims to support vocational institutions in enhancing teaching and learning, strengthen the training and professional development of vocational teachers, and encourage cooperation between schools and labor units through practical training programs.