4 minute read
A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS:
SMS Kindergarten Opens in Laos Amid Growth and Gratitude
by Woo Li Chun, MMS Country Coordinating Officer for Laos. In support of children with cancer, she was a shavee and fund raiser for Hair for Hope 2025.
On 27 February 2025, the Singapore Mission School (SMS) in Laos celebrated a significant milestone in its 15-year journey with the official opening of its Kindergarten at a new location.
Since 2023, the school has experienced exponential growth in enrolment, expanding from 65 to 148 students by January 2025. Of these, 55 are enrolled in Kindergarten classes. Foreseeing the need for more space, SMS began searching in 2024 for an additional site to accommodate the growing Kindergarten. By God’s grace, a suitable location became available just a few shophouses away from the main school building. Operations at the new Kindergarten premises commenced in December 2024.
This expansion was made possible through the generous donations of members from Methodist churches in Singapore, which went towards the rental and renovation of the new premises. Additionally, four classrooms were added to the main SMS building to support the planned launch of the school’s Secondary section.
Giving Thanks Together
The thanksgiving ceremony for the new Kindergarten was graced by Guest-of-Honour Dr Eileen Aw, former Chairperson of the SMS School Board. All 148 students gathered to witness and participate in this joyous occasion.
Principal Jayanthi Ramaiah (affectionately known as Shan) opened the ceremony by inviting Dr Aw to address the children and guests. Dr Aw encouraged the students to love one another and reminded them that God loves them and will always help them. Rev Vincent Lim, MMS Regional Director for Laos, then prayed a blessing over the students and school.
The celebration continued with a performance by the Primary students, the singing of the school song, and a tour of the new Kindergarten premises. The two-storey facility features three air-conditioned classrooms, a teachers’ room, and combined dining and play areas. Behind the building, a water play area and sandpit have been created for outdoor activities. It was heartwarming to witness the joy on the faces of both children and teachers as they explored the new space.
Nurturing Young Leaders
The following day, SMS held its student leaders’ installation ceremony, appointing class monitors and leaders for areas such as the library, environment, and sports. Nearly 30 students received appointments, with Principal Shan encouraging them to lead by example.
The day also featured a heartwarming surprise: each member of the School Board received a handmade card crafted by the Primary 5 students. The staff were not left out—three were honoured with five-year long service gifts, and one received a ten-year Long Service Award, recognising their dedication and service.
Looking Ahead: Secondary School Launch
SMS is now preparing to launch its Secondary School, starting with a Secondary One class soon. A key challenge lies in recruiting teachers—particularly those who can teach English, Mathematics, and Science. As SMS operates a dual-curriculum programme offering subjects in both Lao and English, there is a pressing need for English-competent teachers. Such individuals are scarce in Laos, prompting a call for trained or retired educators willing to serve at SMS for one to two years.
Please continue to pray for the provision of favour, resources, and skilled personnel as the school embarks on this exciting new phase. With God’s guidance and the continued partnership of faithful supporters, SMS in Laos remains committed to its mission of holistic education and godly transformation.
And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
About Singapore Mission School, Laos
A school that provides holistic education in English and Lao for the coming generations of Lao people who will possess the right moral, mental, and educational upbringing to positively influence their community and country through excellent service in all sectors of society. To learn more, visit www.facebook.com/SMS.Vientiane or contact us today.
Call for Teachers
Contact us if you are a trained or retired educator, and you are willing to serve at SMS for one to two years, teaching English, Mathematics, and Science.
