Lai Pao script in Yen Khe

(Baonghean) - From the time of bombs and bullets until now, the villagers in Yen Khe commune (Con Cuong district) have only recently had a night class. In the past, people studied at night to avoid bombs and bullets. Nowadays, villagers take advantage of the nighttime hours to learn the Thai script after working in the rice fields and tea plantations…

Upon inquiring with the locals, it was learned that there is currently a class teaching the Lai Pao Thai script in the area, taught by artisan Vi Kham Mun. This writing system was created by Thai communities living along the Lam River many generations ago. Mr. Mun, a resident of Xieng Lip village (Yen Hoa - Tuong Duong), is now one of dozens of people in the district enthusiastically teaching his ethnic group's script within the community. In Con Cuong district alone, he has taught four classes organized by the government, the Department of Culture, and the District Center for Continuing Education.

Mr. Vi Kham Mun teaches the Lai Pao script in a class.

Hearing about a class teaching the Thai script, Mr. Vi Van Thu from Nua village (Yen Khe) immediately invited the teacher to stay at his house to make it easier to teach. His family owns a beautiful stilt house, a popular stop for tourists visiting the Nua community tourism destination. He said he was excited about the Thai script class being opened in his village and, despite his busy schedule, he still wanted to learn his ethnic group's writing system.

Initially, this special class had over 60 registered participants, but after nearly a week, the number had dropped to 55. Only a few dropped out due to old age or being too busy with household chores. According to the students, studying at night was the most convenient option because during the day everyone was busy harvesting rice, tending tea plants, etc. Despite their busy schedules, everyone was enthusiastic about learning the Thai script. Student Vi Van The said: “I am trying my best to learn well so that I can teach those who don't know the Thai script. As a Thai person, I cannot let my culture be lost!”

Text and photos:Huu Vi