Lane Xang Minerals Limited Company (LXML) welcomed the third group of technical apprentices for 2024, consisting of 18 students who successfully met the selection criteria from secondary schools in Vilabouly District. These apprentices were introduced to the college in preparation for their education in the Technician Apprenticeship program, which spans the academic years 2024–2028. In total, 54 students have received funding across all three groups.

The apprentices toured the LXML office in Vientiane, where they received an orientation on company operations. Mr. Saman Aneka, Managing Director of LXML, along with his team, provided a warm welcome and an introduction to the company’s mission and activities.

The 2024–2028 apprenticeship program is part of a three-year extension of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by both parties in mid-2022. The vocational experts from LGTC have reported on the progress made by the first 18 apprentice trainees in 2022. The insights gained from this discussion will be utilized to improve the experience for the second group and to address any concerns or suggested actions from both LGTC and LXML.

The program will incorporate vocational training at LGTC facilities and provide internship opportunities at LXML’s Sepon Project site. It covers all facilities, including salary, tuition fees, travel, accommodation, stationery, clothes, washing machines, and travel and accommodation during the internship onsite at the Sepon mine from the beginning of the year until the end of their studies at the college. Between 2015 and 2018, eighteen Lao apprentices completed a five-year Australian Certificate III in Trade qualification and a Lao Diploma in Technical Training. These graduates acquired valuable skills that have significantly contributed to their career development in the Lao PDR and abroad.

All apprentice students graduating from the programs supported by LXML will possess strong professional skills, enabling them to effectively contribute to their workplaces both in the Lao PDR and internationally.

Mr. Saman Aneka stated, "LXML is proud to support vocational training for qualified students from Vilabouly District, helping to build better livelihoods for future generations. The skills and experiences gained by the participants will enhance Sepon's operations and contribute to the socio-economic growth of the Lao PDR."

Since the commencement of Sepon’s operations in 2003, LXML has invested millions of dollars in training, scholarships, apprenticeships, traineeships, and internship programs. Over 105 Lao participants have graduated from these apprenticeship programs, and 36 professionals have obtained higher educational diplomas overseas.

To date, the company has invested more than 4 million USD in training, professional development, and scholarships for Lao employees, with nearly 1 million USD in supported training resources for the Savannakhet Vocational School. Additionally, specialized training programs have been regularly provided for staff in various fields.