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Set against the backdrop of misty mountains contrasted by lush green rice fields, Luang Namtha is one of the most beautiful places in northern Laos. ItÕs home to a diverse number of ethnic minority groups scattered in small, remote villages.

This was the first school feeding programme in Laos. It was launched to reduce hunger so that children could concentrate in class. The meals were also an incentive to increase the number of children who were enrolled in schools, particularly girls. With the school meals programme, families saw the benefits of sending their children to school, and enrollment rates improved.

Today, WFP is working to improve attendance levels and the quality of education that children receive. Literacy activities have been introduced to ensure that children, even in remote areas, are given the best start to life.

The programme has grown in the last 16 years. It now supports 145,000 students in 30 districts across the country.