The goal of this project is to provide a simple literacy program for rural Lao and minority groups to become proficient in reading and writing Lao. This will allow them to contribute to the development of their communities, as well as grow personally and spiritually as they have the opportunity to read the Scriptures.

The program uses the Bible and a textbook to teach literacy skills, while local church volunteers conduct the classes, with the help of an audio device that dictates the lessons.

Each year the goal is to start 150-200 classes with 1,500-2,500 students, in the national language, Lao. There is a currently a long waiting list in local churches for members who want to be part of the program, so the need for more classes is clear.

In 2024, the goal is to open 20 classes with 200 students, 10 teachers. Of these, it is expected that 160 will graduate. All graduates will receive an illustrated ‘Stories of Jesus’ book, along with other books of Bible stories.

In recent years, Bible Society has achieved an annual distribution of over 1,500 New Testaments, 6,000 new reader Bible portions and 6,000 children’s Bible portions to those who participate in the classes, and other members of the community who may be impacted by this project in their area.

Significant impact is seen as people from ethnic minorities gain literacy skills. Literate adults are able to read the Bible and become better equipped to contribute to their communities and to church life.