#Laos #Vientiane #Nutrition Project #Japan Nutrition Society #Laos University

Launching the Japan-Laos Nutrition Improvement Project

On December 15, 2025, an important agreement was signed between the Japan Nutrition Society and the Laos University of Health Sciences aimed at addressing nutrition issues in Laos. The signing ceremony took place in the capital city of Vientiane and marked the official commencement of the Japan-Laos Nutrition Improvement Project.

Present at the ceremony were notable figures including Vice Minister of Health, Viengkham Pisai, and Taro Sasaki, Secretary-General of the Japan-Laos Friendship Parliamentary Alliance, along with representatives from various health organizations. The agreement reflects a significant step toward enhancing nutritional standards and developing the first cohort of nutritionists in Laos.

Objectives of the Project

The Japan-Laos Nutrition Improvement Project focuses on two key areas:
1. Community Nutrition Improvement
2. Training of Nutritionists at the Laos University of Health Sciences

Community Nutrition Improvement Initiatives

The project has committed to supporting breastfeeding and nutrition education for mothers and infants, as well as providing nutritional education for children. This initiative is crucial as approximately 33% of children under five in Laos suffer from growth stunting due to malnutrition. The Laotian government considers addressing malnutrition a primary development goal, rallying efforts for solutions across various sectors.

Developing Nutrition Personnel

In tandem with community initiatives, the project aims to establish a specialized course for nutritionists at the Laos University of Health Sciences. This course will equip aspiring nutritionists with practical skills and knowledge necessary for promoting health and nutrition within the community. The long-term vision includes these professionals engaging actively in local nutritional improvement efforts, ultimately fostering sustainable health practices across Laos.

Background of the Initiative

The origin of this collaboration is rooted in the 2021 Tokyo Nutrition Summit, where Japan declared a commitment to tackling global malnutrition using its experience and expertise in nutritional improvement. The idea stemmed from the Lao government's call for assistance, emphasizing the urgent need for solutions tailored to local challenges.

With a project duration set from January 2026 to December 2027, foundational work will be conducted in the Santong District of Vientiane, specifically targeting immediate community needs and establishing a sustainable framework for nutritional improvement.

Voices of Leadership

Mafon Meisai, President of the Laos University of Health Sciences, emphasized the significance of this day in their history, acknowledging that a third of the country’s young population suffers from growth delays. He expressed faith that Japanese expertise in nutrition could serve as a model for addressing these challenges.

In a message delivered by Secretary-General Taro Sasaki, the Japan-Laos Friendship Parliamentary Alliance stressed the importance of this project in solving nutritional challenges and hoped for increased involvement of Japanese nutritionists in Laos.

Commitments from the Japan Nutrition Society

The Japan Nutrition Society is an organization representing approximately 50,000 registered nutritionists and dieticians in Japan. Its mission includes advocating for improved dietary practices and elevating the standards of nutrition professionals through continuous education and international cooperation.

The project epitomizes the spirit of goodwill and partnership between Japan and Laos, as both nations work together to tackle pressing issues surrounding malnutrition and health education. The project not only anticipates immediate benefits but also looks toward building a long-lasting impact on the health landscape of Laos.

With this partnership, we expect to witness significant strides in public health that will influence future generations and drive sustainable development goals concerning nutrition in this Southeast Asian nation.