Lao students have showcased their innovative ideas to strengthen social protection across the Lao People's Democratic Republic at the second National Symposium on Social Protection.
The two-day event, held on 8 and 12 December 2025, provides a platform to showcase ideas, share knowledge and celebrate progress in strengthening the social protection system across the country. It brings together students, government representatives and development partners.
Organized jointly by the Faculty of Social Sciences of the National University of Laos, International Labour Organization (ILO), and OXFAM, the highlight of the Symposium was a competition to strengthen youth engagement.
Teams of third- and fourth-year students from the Faculty of Social Sciences presented their pioneering ideas on 8 December 2025 at the University Auditorium. Five finalist teams explored innovative solutions on the theme "How to better deliver social assistance services and monetary benefits to communities?"
Speaking at the event, Associate Professor Dr Somkhit Boilidam, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences stated, "By encouraging students to examine real-world challenges and propose practical, community-driven solutions from their perspective, the initiative nurtures the next generation of leaders in social development."
The five teams presented a diverse range of proposals, from improved payment mechanisms and digital accessibility features to community outreach models designed to streamline cash delivery. A panel of judges assessed the presentations based on innovation, relevance, feasibility and potential impact on vulnerable populations. The competition highlighted fresh perspectives and creativity that young people bring to advancing social protection in the country.
At the event, students also experienced fun learning through games, quizzes and exercises, along with booth exhibits showcasing innovative projects and research, allowing attendees to engage and learn from practical demonstrations.
"It is inspiring to see the creativity and commitment of these students in addressing real challenges faced by communities, while showcasing their understanding of how social assistance can be delivered more meaningfully," said Loveleen De, Social Protection Programme Manager at the ILO.
The event served as a platform for student engagement, complementing high-level policy discussions on 12 December 2025, to discuss reform ideas and celebrate achievements in social protection from across the country.
"It is inspiring to see the creativity and commitment of these students in addressing real challenges faced by communities, while showcasing their understanding of how social assistance can be delivered more meaningfully," said Loveleen De, Social Protection Programme Manager at the ILO. "By bringing their perspectives to policymakers, their efforts are not only recognised at a national platform, but can also help to inspire innovative and tangible improvements in social assistance delivery," she added.
This year also marks the 70th anniversary of the membership of the Lao People's Democratic Republic in the United Nations. Lao youth have contributed to the celebration by designing a commemorative logo through creativity, passion and pride.
