As the scorching heatwave persists across Southeast Asia, Laos grapples with soaring temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius. To ensure the well-being of Lao students amidst the sweltering conditions, the government has implemented new measures outlined by the Ministry of Education and Sports.

The recent notice issued by the ministry emphasizes the need for educational institutions in Vientiane Capital to take proactive steps in safeguarding students from heat-related risks. Institutions, particularly those lacking adequate cooling systems, are encouraged to consider canceling classes, rescheduling outdoor activities, and arranging compensation lessons.

These regulations aim to mitigate health risks among students, especially those in kindergarten and primary grades, who are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heart disease, and sunburn. Additionally, concerns over poor air quality have prompted schools to promote N95 mask-wearing and implement strategies to address high levels of air pollution.

Social media responses to the new rules have been positive, with many applauding the government's efforts to prioritize the health of children and educators. However, some users have called for further action, suggesting initiatives such as installing fans in disadvantaged schools to alleviate the impact of extreme heat.

Despite these proactive measures, the forecast predicts that Vientiane will continue to experience high temperatures in the coming days, underscoring the ongoing need for vigilance and preparedness to combat the relentless heatwave.