The construction of a boarding school, a gift from the Vietnamese government, began in Phonsavan district, in Xieng Khouang province, on Apr. 9.

The school, located 400km north of the capital city Vientiane , will cost 63 billion VND (3 million USD) to build and will be able to accommodate 315 students, with the classrooms on site.

At the ground-breaking ceremony, Somkot Mangnomek, the Secretary of the provincial Party Committee and Governor of Xieng Khouang province, said the school is a very thoughtful and meaningful gift from Vietnam. It will help to educate young Laotians and also mark the Vietnam-Laos Solidarity and Friendship Year 2012.-VNA