Many Khmer pagodas in the southern province of Bac Lieu have opened summer classes on Khmer language for local children.

At Chot Pagoda in Hung Hoi commune, Vinh Loi district, more than 100 children of all ages are attending four classes held at different hours throughout the day.

Monk Thach Uong, who is in charge of the classes, said the monks want to teach the children not only the ethnic group’s language but also traditional customs and good behaviours.

Eleven-year-old Lam Thi Phuong Anh said the Khmer script is very difficult, but after a long time of practicing, she can now write in a proper way.

The pagoda classes are hailed by Tran Thi Hoa Ry, head of the provincial Committee for Ethnic Affairs, who said they help Khmer children become aware of their cultural root while contributing to preserving and developing the fine traditions of the Khmer ethnic group in the southern region.

Bac Lieu province is home to around 65,000 Khmer people.-VNA