Improving Cambodia’s Education Sector: 10 Best Strategies for 2024-2028

Overview of Cambodia’s Education Sector

Cambodia’s education sector has made significant strides over the past two decades, moving beyond the shadows of its challenging past and working toward a future defined by inclusivity, quality, and sustainability. The Cambodian government, through the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport (MoEYS), is spearheading transformative initiatives to enhance educational standards and access for all Cambodians.

Under the leadership of Minister Hang Chuon Naron, MoEYS has introduced ambitious frameworks to shape Cambodia’s education sector. Notably, the Education Strategic Plan 2024-2028 (ESP) aligns with the government’s overarching Pentagonal Strategy—a roadmap for the country’s sustainable development, with human capital development as a cornerstone. The ESP aims to modernize Cambodia’s educational landscape by improving access, quality, equity, and inclusivity across all levels of learning. In a recent Dissemination Workshop, the minister emphasized the importance of a strategic approach, highlighting core areas such as digital education, academic health, and early childhood programs.

This post will explore the top 10 strategies to transform Cambodia’s education sector over the next four years. From investing in teacher training to expanding digital resources, these strategies offer practical ways for the Cambodian government, educators, and communities to achieve sustainable development goals in education.

1. Strengthening Teacher Training and Support Systems

Teachers are the foundation of any strong educational system, and the ESP underscores the importance of investing in their training and professional growth. The Teacher Policy Action Plan (TPAP) for 2024-2030 aims to support teachers through continuous professional development, which helps them stay aligned with modern classroom needs. By implementing ongoing training and support initiatives, teachers are better equipped to deliver high-quality education.

Strategies for improvement include:

• Regularly updating training modules to reflect advancements in pedagogy, technology, and classroom management.
• Establishing mentorship programs where experienced teachers guide new educators.
• Implementing measures to boost teacher morale, including performance-based incentives.

2. Expanding Access to Inclusive Education

Access to quality education remains a challenge, especially for children from marginalized communities. The ESP emphasizes inclusive education to ensure every child, regardless of their background, has equal learning opportunities. This strategy focuses on supporting children with disabilities, children from ethnic minorities, and those in remote areas.

Actions to foster inclusive education involve:

• Building and adapting school infrastructure to be accessible to children with disabilities.
• Providing teacher training on inclusive practices, including multilingual education for ethnic minority students.
• Expanding scholarships and financial support for low-income students to encourage school enrollment and reduce dropout rates.

3. Advancing Digital Education and Digital Literacy

The integration of digital technology into Cambodia’s education system is vital in today’s digital age. The ESP emphasizes the role of digital literacy as part of the Pentagonal Strategy, which prioritizes science, technology, and digital skills. MoEYS seeks to ensure students are digitally literate, thereby equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in a globalized world.

Digital School for new generation of teachers and learners
A virtual school for teachers and professionals to share knowledge and students can self-study on the SalaDigital. You can read books and watch video lessons as well as create schools and upload lessons for free. Sala Digtial: https://sala.moeys.gov.kh/en

Key initiatives to promote digital education include:

• Providing internet access and digital devices to schools, especially in rural areas.
• Developing a national digital curriculum that includes coding, data literacy, and digital ethics.
• Establishing online learning platforms that allow students to continue learning from anywhere.

4. Enhancing Early Childhood Education Programs

Early childhood education lays the groundwork for lifelong learning and success. The ESP places significant emphasis on expanding early childhood programs to reach children from all backgrounds, particularly in underserved areas. The goal is to build a strong foundation in literacy, numeracy, and social skills before children enter primary school.

Steps to expand early childhood education programs include:

• Increasing the number of public preschools in rural areas.
• Training preschool teachers on modern early childhood education practices.
• Providing community-based early learning programs that involve parents and caregivers.

5. Improving Curriculum and Extracurricular Activities

A relevant, modern curriculum is essential to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century. MoEYS is committed to continuously reviewing and updating the national curriculum to include new subjects, competencies, and learning approaches.

Important areas for curriculum improvement include:

• Integrating life skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving modules into the curriculum.
• Enhancing extracurricular programs such as sports, arts, and science clubs to promote holistic development.
• Introducing environmental education to instill sustainable practices and awareness among students.

6. Promoting Academic Health and Mental Wellbeing

Academic success is closely tied to students’ physical and mental health. Recognizing this, MoEYS is prioritizing initiatives that address students’ well-being, including mental health resources and services within schools. Schools can contribute to academic health by creating environments that are supportive and stress-free, where students feel valued and safe.

Strategies to promote academic health include:

• Incorporating physical education and sports programs into the school curriculum.
• Training teachers and staff to identify mental health concerns early and provide support.
• Establishing partnerships with healthcare providers to make mental health resources accessible to students.

7. Building Partnerships with Parents and Guardians

Parental involvement is crucial in supporting students’ academic success and personal development. To strengthen school-community connections, the ESP encourages collaboration between schools and families. By involving parents and guardians in educational activities, MoEYS aims to create a more supportive environment for students.

Ways to enhance parental involvement include:

• Organizing regular meetings and workshops for parents to discuss their children’s progress and any academic challenges.
• Providing resources and guides to help parents support learning at home.
• Setting up parent-teacher associations (PTAs) to facilitate communication between schools and families.

8. Establishing a Centre of Excellence in Higher Education

A Centre of Excellence in Higher Education can serve as a hub for research, innovation, and quality learning at the tertiary level. Such a center would help bridge gaps in higher education, promote advanced research, and produce graduates with high employability.

Key components for establishing a Centre of Excellence include:

• Partnering with international universities and research institutions to promote knowledge exchange.
• Developing specialized programs in fields critical to Cambodia’s economic growth, such as information technology, agriculture, and environmental science.
• Creating internship and research opportunities that connect students with industry partners.

9. Enhancing Education System Governance and Accountability

Good governance in education is essential to ensure effective management, transparency, and accountability. Strengthening governance within MoEYS and educational institutions will lead to more efficient and responsive administration.

Measures to enhance governance include:

• Implementing performance evaluations for schools and administrators.
• Establishing a clear monitoring and evaluation framework for all educational programs.
• Promoting transparency by regularly publishing reports on education system progress and challenges.

10. Building Climate-Resilient Education Infrastructure

Given Cambodia’s susceptibility to climate-related challenges, such as flooding and heat waves, building resilient educational infrastructure is essential. Climate-resilient schools ensure continuity of education and create a safer learning environment for students.

Steps to build climate-resilient schools include:

• Constructing school buildings with flood and heat resistance in mind.
• Introducing eco-friendly facilities, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems.
• Providing climate education to prepare students to face environmental challenges.

Conclusion

The Education Strategic Plan 2024-2028 presents a promising roadmap to advance Cambodia’s education sector by addressing critical areas such as teacher training, digital education, and inclusive learning. With a comprehensive and collaborative approach, MoEYS, educators, and communities can together create a more equitable, resilient, and high-quality education system for Cambodia’s next generation.

These 10 strategies are the blueprint to ensure Cambodia’s progress in line with the Pentagonal Strategy, and ultimately, its vision for sustainable development. Now, it’s your turn! Which strategy do you think will have the most significant impact? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Cambodia’s public schools have a low educational standard when compared to international standards. The Khmer language is used to teach, which is a substantial obstacle for most non-natives, and expat children are rarely allowed to attend public schools. As a result, the vast majority of expats in Phnom Penh prefer to send their children to an international school.

• Indictus International is centrally located in Phnom Penh and is equipped with modern learning facilities and trained educators with professional experience comprehensive English curricula to international students. From Reception to Cambridge A-Levels, other languages such as French, Chinese, and Khmer are available. The school offers age from 3 year to 18-year-old.
• SCIA delivers Singapore education to international student with their unique blend of Singapore and Cambridge curricula, as well as inspirational global leaders in the future. SCIA is located in Phnom Penh, no 58, Street R8, Sang Kat Srah Chak, Khan Doun Penh.
• Northbridge International School Cambodia is a school for international students and provide a high quality to Cambodia students and international student that are living in Cambodia. NISC teach 11 languages, including English, French, and Mandarin, and our curriculum includes the IB Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma Programs. Our students graduate from Northbridge International School Cambodia with a command of foreign languages and qualifications valued by the world’s most prestigious universities. All of the information about our school, including fees, curriculum, and teaching positions
• East-West International School Established in 2006 which is centrally located in BKK3, and offers lessons from Nursery to Grade 12. In Secondary, students can study the MOEYS-approved Khmer National Curriculum, the International Primary Curriculum, the International Middle Years Curriculum, and a comprehensive Cambridge program of IGCSE, AS, and A level classes.
• The Canadian International School of Phnom Penh (CIS) is the only school in Cambodia that is annually evaluated for accreditation by a foreign ministry. Every 3-5 years, schools are examined for accreditation renewal. Certified French and Mandarin bilingual programs are available at CIS, providing students with authentic exposure to the target language.

 

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Khmer Dictation Contest Closes Applications, 1,200 Enroll

The Khmer Dictation Contest, a unique event that celebrates the beauty and intricacies of the Khmer language, has quickly become one of Cambodia’s most cherished cultural competitions. With the second edition closing its application process and securing 1,200 participants, the contest underscores the importance of preserving and promoting Khmer literature and the alphabet.

This blog delves into the essence of the Khmer Dictation Contest, its history, purpose, and the milestones achieved, along with the inspiring stories of its participants.

What is the Khmer Dictation Contest?

The Khmer Dictation Contest, also known as the Angkor Writing Contest, is a national competition aimed at celebrating the Khmer language. It highlights the beauty and complexity of Khmer spelling and grammar while fostering a sense of unity and pride among Cambodians.

Participants are tasked with dictation exercises that test their proficiency in the Khmer language, including grammar, spelling, and punctuation. It is not just a competition but a celebration of Cambodia’s rich literary heritage.

The Purpose of the Contest

The Khmer Dictation Contest serves several key purposes:

1. Preserving Khmer Language and Literature
   By emphasizing the intricacies of Khmer grammar and spelling, the contest acts as a safeguard for the preservation of the Khmer alphabet and literary traditions.
2. Promoting Cultural Awareness
   Themes such as Angkor Khmer Civilisation and Angkor Writing connect participants to Cambodia’s history and cultural richness, deepening their appreciation for the nation’s heritage.
3. Fostering National Unity
   The competition brings together individuals from all walks of life, reinforcing a shared love for the Khmer language.
4. Encouraging Intergenerational Participation
   With participants ranging from six to 81 years old, the contest demonstrates the timeless appeal of Khmer literature and its ability to unite generations.

History of the Khmer Dictation Contest

The Khmer Dictation Contest was first organized in 2023 under the theme Angkor Khmer Civilisation. A collaborative effort among various ministries, including those responsible for education, culture, and tourism, it quickly gained national attention.

The inaugural event welcomed 700 participants aged between seven and 67, and it concluded with prizes ranging from cash awards to luxury hotel stays. Cheng Ratana, a 28-year-old participant, emerged as the champion with an impressive record of only two errors.

Building on the success of the first edition, the 2025 contest has set its sights higher, with 1,200 applicants officially registered under the theme Angkor Writing.

Who Can Enroll?

One of the contest’s defining features is its inclusivity. The event is open to all Cambodians, regardless of age, background, or profession. This year’s participants include students, professionals, and retirees, showcasing a diverse array of individuals united by their passion for the Khmer language.

For the 2025 edition, participants are divided into two groups:

• Group 1: For those aged 18 and under (with no minimum age requirement).
• Group 2: For those aged 19 and above (with no upper age limit).

The wide age range ensures that everyone, from budding linguists to seasoned language enthusiasts, has an opportunity to showcase their skills.

Where Does the Contest Take Place?

The Khmer Dictation Contest takes place at a site that is both iconic and culturally significant: the western causeway of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This venue not only adds a sense of grandeur but also connects participants to Cambodia’s historical and cultural roots.

How the Contest is Organized

The event’s organization is a collaborative effort involving multiple ministries. Key details include:

• Participation Fee: A nominal fee of 20,000 riel ($5) is collected to cover basic costs such as T-shirts and logistical support.
• Capacity Limit: Due to venue constraints, the number of participants is capped at 1,200, ensuring a well-managed event.
• Themes: Each year, the contest adopts a theme that resonates with Cambodian history and culture. This year’s theme, Angkor Writing, continues the tradition of honoring Khmer heritage.

Technical Preparations and Support

According to Hour Chhun Kry, director-general of the Ministry of Education’s General Education Department, all technical preparations are in place to ensure the contest runs smoothly. The seamless execution of such a large-scale event reflects the dedication and expertise of the organizing team.

Inspiring Stories from Participants

The inclusivity of the Khmer Dictation Contest has led to some remarkable stories:

• The Youngest and the Oldest Participants
  This year’s competition includes a six-year-old child and an 81-year-old elder. Their participation highlights the universal appeal of the Khmer language and the desire to preserve it across generations.
• Family Participation
  Some families have turned the contest into a bonding activity, with multiple members enrolling together.
• Champion Stories
  The previous winner, Cheng Ratana, shared that his victory inspired his community to take a greater interest in Khmer literature.

What Makes the Khmer Dictation Contest Special?

Several factors contribute to the contest’s unique appeal:

1. Cultural Significance:
   By linking the competition to themes like Angkor Khmer Civilisation, the event reinforces the connection between language and heritage.
2. Community Engagement:
   The contest has become a platform for community participation, drawing contestants from across Cambodia.
3. Inclusivity:
   The absence of rigid age or professional barriers ensures that everyone can participate.
4. Prizes and Recognition:
   Winners receive not only material prizes but also national recognition as ambassadors of Khmer literary heritage.

The Future of the Khmer Dictation Contest

The overwhelming response to the contest highlights its growing popularity and cultural significance. While the current venue capacity limits participation to 1,200, the organizers have expressed a desire to expand in future editions, allowing even more people to join.

The introduction of the age-group system is another step toward inclusivity, ensuring fair competition across diverse demographics.

Why It Matters

The Khmer Dictation Contest is more than a competition—it is a celebration of Cambodia’s linguistic and cultural identity. In an era where globalization and technology threaten traditional practices, such initiatives are vital for preserving and promoting national heritage.

By bringing together participants of all ages and backgrounds, the contest not only fosters a love for the Khmer language but also strengthens national pride and unity.

Conclusion

The Khmer Dictation Contest stands as a testament to the enduring power of language and culture. From its humble beginnings in 2023 to its ambitious 2025 edition, the event has inspired thousands of Cambodians to reconnect with their linguistic roots. It has also highlighted the importance of preserving the Khmer alphabet for future generations.

As the second edition unfolds at the majestic Angkor Wat, the contest promises to be a landmark event that continues to celebrate the beauty of Khmer literature. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or a young learner, the Khmer Dictation Contest offers a platform to share in the collective joy of language and heritage.

What do you think about the Khmer Dictation Contest? Have you or someone you know participated in it? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

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A Digital Push from the Senate President

In Cambodia’s fast-changing digital world, where millions are connected through social media and mobile data, Senate President Hun Sen has once again made headlines not for politics, but for technology. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the extraordinary congress of the Cambodia Veteran Association (CVA), where he also serves as President, Hun Sen urged members to start embracing Telegram’s live-streaming feature. His message was simple yet powerful: Telegram Live is more efficient than Facebook Live, using less internet data and allowing more people, especially in rural areas, to connect and engage. This call reflects more than a preference for one app over another; it highlights a broader strategy for digital inclusivity, organizational outreach, and even business growth in Cambodia.

Why Telegram and Why Now?

Hun Sen pointed out that while Facebook has been the dominant platform for years, it comes with limitations. Broadcasting on Facebook Live consumes more internet data and requires stronger connections luxuries not always available to ordinary Cambodians. Telegram, on the other hand, offers live streaming with lower data requirements, making it easier for viewers in provinces and rural areas with weaker connectivity to participate.

For Hun Sen, this is not just a matter of convenience; it’s about access. If government institutions, associations like CVA, and even businesses want to reach people in every corner of the country, they must use platforms that are affordable and inclusive. By championing Telegram Live, Hun Sen is signaling that digital communication should be accessible to all citizens, not just those with high-speed internet or expensive data packages.

The Problem with CVA’s Online Presence

Hun Sen’s remarks also carried a dose of frustration. He noted that CVA’s presence online, especially on Facebook, was weak. Activities were rarely posted or promoted, and when they were, they didn’t capture much attention. To address this, Hun Sen created a special working group to collect and distribute updates from Bayon TV, his social media channels, and CVA events so that government activities could reach more people.

More importantly, he highlighted that many Telegram channel operators did not even know how to use the live-streaming function. This lack of digital literacy is a barrier not only for CVA but for countless other organizations across Cambodia. His message was clear: if you don’t know how to go live on Telegram, learn. For Hun Sen, failing to adapt to these tools is no longer acceptable in today’s connected society.

Falling Behind Means Losing Followers

Hun Sen also revealed a telling statistic about his own Telegram channel. Once boasting over one million subscribers, it has now dropped to around 700,000 because of passive performance and limited engagement. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Hun Manet’s channel continues to grow, currently with around 470,000 subscribers.

This shift demonstrates a universal truth of the digital age: audiences are not permanent. Whether you are a politician, an association, or a business, if you fail to engage your followers regularly with fresh and interactive content, they will leave. Telegram Live is therefore more than just a new feature it’s a tool to sustain attention, loyalty, and influence in a crowded digital environment.

Telegram Live: Features That Matter

Hun Sen’s recommendation is rooted in the advantages Telegram Live offers over competing platforms. Current features include:

• Low Data Consumption: Telegram requires less internet bandwidth than Facebook Live, making streams smoother even with weaker connections.
• Direct Broadcasting to Channels: Live streams can be broadcast directly to channel subscribers without relying on complex group structures or algorithm-driven feeds.
• Real-Time Audience Interaction: Viewers can send comments and reactions, creating a more interactive experience.
• Replay Options: Those who miss a broadcast can easily rewatch it later, extending the reach of the event.
• Event Scheduling: Channels can schedule live streams ahead of time, giving followers reminders and improving attendance.
• Audience Analytics: Basic data tools allow hosts to measure engagement and refine strategies.

These features make Telegram a practical choice for organizations and businesses that want affordable, reliable, and interactive communication with their audiences.

A New Trend in Data Consumption

Hun Sen’s promotion of Telegram Live also hints at broader economic consequences. If more people begin using Telegram instead of Facebook, data consumption patterns in Cambodia could shift dramatically. Telecom operators and internet service providers may need to adjust pricing models as users no longer require expensive data bundles just to watch live streams.

This change could reshape the digital economy, especially considering Cambodia already has around 11.65 million social media users about 68 percent of the population. If even a fraction of those users switch to Telegram for live streaming, the platform could become a significant player in the Cambodian digital space, creating ripple effects across business, government, and society.

Inclusivity: Reaching Every Corner of Cambodia

Socio-economic researcher Chey Tech described Hun Sen’s call as a “positive initiative” precisely because it benefits people in rural provinces. With Telegram Live, ordinary citizens can join digital conversations without paying high internet costs. For a country where many families must carefully manage mobile data, this is an important step toward inclusivity.

For the government, inclusivity translates into better transparency and public engagement. For businesses, it opens doors to previously unreachable customers. Whether it’s promoting a new product, hosting a customer Q&A, or delivering live tutorials, Telegram Live allows businesses to connect with consumers more effectively while breaking down the barriers linked to high data consumption.

Lessons for Business Owners

Hun Sen’s message should not be seen as relevant only for CVA or government institutions. Business owners in Cambodia can learn several critical lessons from this push toward Telegram:

1. Digital Literacy is Essential: Just as CVA operators struggled to use Telegram Live, many businesses risk falling behind if they do not invest in training staff to master digital tools.
2. Engagement is Key: Losing subscribers or customers due to inactivity or lack of fresh content is a risk every business faces. Consistency in communication keeps audiences loyal.
3. Platform Diversification Protects Reach: Depending solely on Facebook or TikTok is risky. Businesses should explore multiple platforms, including Telegram to avoid overreliance on a single channel.
4. Affordability Expands Markets: By using platforms that require less data, businesses can reach more customers, especially in rural areas where affordability is critical.
5. Interactive Features Build Trust: Real-time interaction during live streams allows businesses to build stronger relationships with consumers, enhancing brand credibility.

A Broader Vision for Cambodia’s Digital Future

Hun Sen’s call for Telegram Live should also be viewed as part of Cambodia’s broader journey toward digital modernization. The Senate President envisions a future where platforms like Telegram become hubs for government transparency, public engagement, and community building. For organizations like CVA, it’s a way to stay relevant; for businesses, it’s a way to grow; and for citizens, it’s a way to feel included in national conversations without facing digital exclusion.

This vision emphasizes that technology is not just about convenience but about empowerment. By urging Cambodians to embrace Telegram Live, Hun Sen is advocating for a more connected, inclusive, and innovative society.

The Opportunity of Telegram Live

Hun Sen’s advocacy for Telegram Live is more than a preference for one app it is a wake-up call. For CVA, it means modernizing communication to engage members effectively. For government agencies, it means reaching citizens with greater transparency and inclusivity. For business owners, it means recognizing new opportunities to connect with consumers affordably and interactively.

The future of digital engagement in Cambodia will not belong to those who cling to outdated habits but to those who adapt quickly, learn new tools, and diversify their platforms. Telegram Live, with its low data requirements, user-friendly features, and growing influence, represents an opportunity too valuable to ignore. Hun Sen’s words should be heard not just by CVA members but by anyone government, business, or individual who seeks to thrive in Cambodia’s fast-changing digital landscape.

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