Students attend a ceremony marking the start of the new semester at a school in Vientiane, Laos, Sept. 1, 2026. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)

Students attend school on the first day of the new semester in Vientiane, Laos, Sept. 1, 2026. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)

Teachers and students attend a ceremony marking the start of the new semester at a school in Vientiane, Laos, Sept. 1, 2026. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)

Teachers and students attend a ceremony marking the start of the new semester at a school in Vientiane, Laos, Sept. 1, 2026. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)