Country Focus: Lao PDR

Lao PDR is at the forefront of the climate crisis – and it is having a profound effect on access to education. The Climate Smart Education Systems Initiative is working to change that. We spoke to Lao PDR Country Manager Luke Ebbs and Education Technical Advisor Phouvanh Phommalangsy about the country’s progress at the intersection of climate and education. 

How is climate change affecting children’s access to education? 

Climate change is having a profound and growing impact on Lao PDR, particularly through more frequent and intense flooding, droughts, and landslides. These climate events disrupt communities, damage infrastructure, and stretch already limited resources. For children, the consequences are especially severe. Flooded roads and collapsed bridges often prevent students from reaching school, while extreme weather events have destroyed classrooms and essential learning materials across several provinces. 

What are the stumbling blocks to ministries not accessing climate finance?  

The main stumbling blocks – and these were identified by government of Laos representatives themselves at the recent meeting – include: limited technical capacity to develop bankable proposals; weak coordination across ministries; and a general lack of familiarity with climate finance mechanisms. 

Are you optimistic about the country’s future regards climate change and education? 

I’m optimistic because we’re seeing growing political will and meaningful youth engagement. Lao PDR has begun integrating climate resilience into its education sector plans, and there’s a clear recognition that schools can serve as powerful hubs for climate awareness and action. What gives me particular hope is the creativity and commitment of young people – especially in rural areas. I’ve attended events where students showcased impressive, practical solutions: replacing single-use plastics with biodegradable alternatives, and using low-cost, nature-based approaches to ‘green’ their classrooms. 

What needs to happen now? 

The next step is clear: implement CSESI effectively and with urgency. This includes: targeted capacity building for ministry staff and local partners; developing a national climate finance roadmap to guide strategic engagement; designing a bankable climate and education program that can scale resilience across the sector; establishing a multi-sectoral coordination unit to ensure alignment and sustained collaboration. 

You can follow more updates from Lao PDR on LinkedIn here.