Phnom Penh: Golden Gate American School, or GGAS, has announced the inclusion of the IB International Curriculum in its training program. School's Chairwoman said that the new program will encourage students to participate in international competitions, especially to make them active, courageous and responsible students.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) program encourage both personal development and academic achievement challenging students to think critically, to ask the right questions and think across disciplines. An IB education also fosters diversity, curiosity and a healthy appetite for learning.

The official launch of the IB International Curriculum for GGAS took place at the Sofitel Phnom Penh on the evening of July 27, with the present the official authorization of the IB Representative to GGAS Chairwoman Heng Sokunthea.

Caitlin Hurly, Head of IB International Program at GGAS, said Golden Gate American School is committed to providing students with an American standards curriculum. She added that the inclusion of an international curriculum at GGAS is the school's focus on providing a best education for students to prepare them for thrive the challenging global landscape.

She Adds: “at Golden gate American school I'll commitment to excellence remains unwavering we believe that by embracing the IB programs alongside our American curriculum we are providing our students with a comprehensive education that nurtures their minds hearts and souls together we will cultivate the community of Learners who are not just academically accomplished but are also compassionate open-minded and committed to making a positive impact on society as we embark”.

Faizol Musa, Senior Manager of the IB Program in Southeast Asia said Golden Gate American School has met all the requirements for becoming a member of the IB World School in just eight months. While on average it would take 2 years to get it. In addition, the school is also licensed to implement the IB program from elementary to high school.

Heng Sokunthea, Chairwoman of Golden Gate American School, stated that the inclusion of the IB curriculum is in response to the support of parents as well as the contribution of the Royal Government to the further development of education in Cambodia. She added that this world-renowned international program will lead Cambodian students to international curricula and competitions, and this program encourages students to become an active learner, be brave and attentive, dare to work hard, know how to ask questions and observe, have high responsibility for their studies throughout life

She adds: “Through the efforts of the management, teachers and all staff of Golden Gate American School, we strongly hope that our students will receive the best education possible to help them become more successful in higher education, both in the country and abroad”.

Secretary of State for the Ministry of Education, Ms. Kim Sethany, congratulated GGAS on its official launch of the IB International Curriculum.

She said the IB curriculum is important because it not only provides international knowledge on hard skills, but also provides students with Soft skill, a 21st century skill. Skills in thinking, teamwork, communication, use of technology, self-discipline, perseverance and many other soft skills to meet future job needs.

"In the context of the Industrial Revolution 4.0, it is not the same as before, the class must integrate different teaching methods that make students both strong and talented in order to be successful," she said.

As of 2023, 5,700 schools in 159 countries are implementing the IB curriculum. Separately, in Cambodia, there are seven schools that have the right to teach this program, including the American Golden Gate School, which is a school that has the full right to teach IB DP high school faster than the deadline in the conditions of the IB. Along with the launch of this international curriculum, GGAS will offer a number of scholarships up to high school level as well.

Golden Gate American School will begin accepting students to enroll in the IB program for the 2023-2024 school years from now on.