The Governor of Phongsaly province, Mr Khamphoy Vannasane, and other officials on Tuesday view items on display at the One District, One Product Exhibition in the province’s Bounneua district. --Photo Lao National Radio

The Governor of Xaysomboun province, Mr Phoykham Houngbounnhuang, and officials from the Ministry of Energy and Mines, the province’s Energy and Mines Department, and Sengdeuan Construction Company on Tuesday attend a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a vocational training school. The project involves the construction of a car park, offices, a classroom block, teachers’ dormitory and other facilities at a cost of 39 billion kip. It is estimated that construction will take 18 months to complete. --Photo Touth

Through a collaboration with International Needs Australia and their Lao local partner the Gender Development Association, Australia is empowering women and girls and ensuring they have access to education, agricultural technology, and leadership opportunities. One prominent activity is lime planting. Lime cultivation is booming in Meuangfeuang district, especially since the introduction of improved agricultural technology and solar-powered irrigation. In addition to the limes sold at local markets and to tourists, there is a growing market for organic dishwashing liquid produced by the project, which uses limes as the key ingredient. The project is funded through the Australian NGO Cooperation Programme, which has also introduced solar power as an alternative energy source for use by women farmers.            --Photo Australia in Laos