VIENTIANE, April 24 (Xinhua) -- The Lao government has expanded assistance to Lao students stranded abroad due to COVID-19-related travel restrictions.
Lao students in foreign countries, most of who are in Vietnam and China, are in good hands and have received assistance from the Lao government and the host nations, local daily Vientiane Times reported on Friday.
All the Lao students have sufficient resources, including accommodation, food and healthcare to sustain themselves. They are safe and none of them has been infected by the coronavirus, according to a report issued by Lao Ministry of Education and Sports on Monday.
Almost 20,000 Lao students are studying abroad in more than 20 countries, with Vietnam and China being popular destinations for many students. More than 16,000 Lao students now take courses in educational institutions in Vietnam.
The students enrolled in foreign institutions are continuing their studies online, according to the ministry's report.
The ministry has called on Lao students abroad to follow all laws and rules, and support health and safety practices put in place by their host nations.
Everyone should also follow the order issued by the Lao prime minister to build public understanding of the dangers and effects of COVID-19 so that people do not ignore the risks and threats posed by the pandemic, said the report. Enditem
