VIENTIANE, Jan. 14 (Xinhua) -- Lao Deputy Prime Minister Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune has called on relevant authorities to prioritize the fifth population and housing census, recognizing it as a national priority and urging active engagement to ensure its success.
Speaking at the third meeting of the fifth population and housing census steering committee on Tuesday, Kikeo emphasized the need for authorities at all levels to raise public awareness of the census by central government guidelines, to encourage participation and ensure that stakeholders fully understand the importance of the data collected.
He also instructed steering committees to develop detailed plans for training, implementation, and follow-up to ensure the quality and effectiveness of the census.
Laos has conducted a nationwide population and housing census every ten years since 1985. The upcoming census, scheduled for 2025, will be the fifth of its kind.
The census data will serve as fundamental information for evaluating the implementation of the ninth Five-Year National Socio-Economic Development Plan, shaping the next five-year plan, and assessing progress in sustainable development. ■
