Quang Tri Province in Vietnam is starting Lao language classes at two border boarding schools. This pilot can help students learn a new language and build ties with neighboring Laos.

The province will begin Lao classes for grade‑6 students at Dakrong Elementary and Middle School and Dan Hoa Elementary and Middle School in the 2027‑28 academic year. The program will later expand to higher grades, reaching grade‑9 by the 2030‑31 school year.

The pilot runs from 2026 to 2031, with a vision toward 2035. It will focus on teacher training, preparing facilities, developing a Lao curriculum, and organizing cultural exchange activities.

The program also plans cultural exchange, school‑twinning with schools in the Lao provinces of Sekong, Salavan, Savannakhet and Khammouane, and cooperation with border guard stations and local authorities. After the pilot, the province will report the results to the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training to consider a wider rollout.

Investments total VND220.9 billion (US$8.5 million) for Dakrong School, which covers 6.46 ha and serves 1,021 students, and VND285 billion (US$11 million) for Dan Hoa School, which covers about 9.67 ha and serves 910 students. These funds show the province’s commitment to improve education and strengthen cross‑border cultural ties.