Phnom Penh, Cambodia – February 19, 2025: Prime Minister Hun Manet officiated the graduation ceremony for 2,551 students at Asia-Europe University (AEU) held at the Koh Pich Convention and Exhibition Center this morning.

Mr. Ly Khunthai, Chairman of the Board of Directors of AEU, announced that of the total graduates, 1,169 were women, representing 45.83% of the graduating class. The breakdown included 358 associate degree students (181 women), 1,833 bachelor degree students, 330 master degree students, and 25 doctorate students. The ceremony also recognized 5 honorary doctorates and featured 69 undergraduate scholarship recipients, including 41 women, along with 6 students with disabilities.

In his address, Prime Minister Hun Manet highlighted Cambodia's optimistic economic forecast, projecting growth rates of 6% for 2024 and 6.3% for 2025. He noted a significant increase in foreign direct investment, with inflows rising by nearly 40% in 2024 compared to the previous year. In 2024 alone, the Council for the Development of Cambodia approved 414 new investment projects—an increase of 146 projects from 2023.

“The economic growth and new investments will create a pressing demand for skilled workers,” said Hun Manet, urging the graduates to pursue job opportunities in both public and private sectors with determination and hope.

The Prime Minister advocated for the inclusion of skilled individuals who may lack formal educational credentials, urging the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Labor to develop pathways for these workers to gain recognition through certification, thus improving their employment prospects.

On the topic of border issues, Prime Minister Hun Manet advised Cambodian and Thai politicians to avoid intertwining political agendas with technical border management. “The responsibility for border matters lies with experts. The government aims to address these issues in a manner consistent with laws and technical standards,” he stated.

He also emphasized the need for infrastructure projects to prioritize the needs of local communities. “Companies and authorities must ensure that any road or culvert construction allows for continued access for residents,” Hun Manet urged, suggesting temporary measures be established for public use during construction.