The aims of the School Construction Project are to improve school facilities, increase the enrollment rate of school-age children in rural villages and communities, and reduce the overflow of students in classes. Local natural resources are used to build schools, and villagers cover approximately 10 percent of the total cost. The other 90 percent is covered through donations from Japanese people and organizations. The project creates opportunities for rural children to enter school and encourages both teachers’ teaching and students’ learning and creativity. It has been operating since 1997 in Khammuane, Savannakhet and Sekong provinces, benefiting villagers and primary school children in needy areas – areas where more than 50 percent of the school buildings are temporary and worn out.