Meuangxay Secondary School in northern Laos, once plagued by crumbling infrastructure and outdated facilities, has reopened with a transformative upgrade funded by the Chinese firm CGN. Completed on March 11, 2026, after six months of construction, the project merges modern education infrastructure with solar energy innovation.
From Dilapidation to Modernization
Principal Chanpheng Panyasack described the school’s previous state as "barely functional," with cracked blackboards and insufficient desks. The renovation, part of CGN’s 1,000-MW solar power initiative, added a three-story teaching building with 10 classrooms, refurbished existing structures, and installed new furniture and lighting. A weatherproof basketball court now complements the revitalized campus.
Photovoltaic Innovation Lights the Way
The school’s roofs are fitted with Chinese-made photovoltaic glass and energy storage systems, slashing electricity costs and introducing students to green technology. "This design teaches sustainability through daily life," said CGN Laos Chairman Jia Xianyu, linking the project to China’s "Firefly Project" for global education assistance.
Strengthening China-Laos Ties
Oudomxay Vice Governor Souvath Mahavongsanan praised the collaboration, noting its dual impact on education and energy transition. The broader CGN solar project, operational since December 2025, has created thousands of local jobs, aligning with Laos’ goals to convert natural resources into sustainable growth.
