Phnom Penh, March 11, 2024: Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, esteemed Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports, has underscored the paramount importance of comprehending the origins of the Khmer language to ensure its proficient usage among the young generation of Cambodia. Dr. Naron emphasized that this grasp of linguistic heritage is pivotal for the preservation and advancement of Cambodia's national language, potentially paving the way for the evolution of new linguistic expressions.
These poignant sentiments were expressed during a significant event announcing the national victors of the smot poetry reading competition and the prestigious Hun Sen Award composition. This event, held as part of the festivities commemorating National Reading Day on March 11, 2024, under the theme "Basic Reading for All in Life," was organized by the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports in collaboration with a plethora of stakeholders, including civil society, international organizations, the private sector, and educational institutions nationwide. The ceremonious occasion unfolded on the morning of March 10, 2024, at the esteemed Institute of Technology of Cambodia.
In his enlightening discourse, Dr. Naron delved into the rich historical tapestry of the Khmer language, elucidating its journey from ancient inscriptions to its contemporary spoken form. He illuminated its evolution, tracing influences from religious scriptures and the amalgamation of Sanskrit, Old Khmer, and Pali languages that birthed Central Khmer.
The Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports has taken proactive strides in bolstering the Khmer language, implementing multifaceted measures ranging from innovative teaching methodologies to the cultivation of proficient educators, educational reforms, the establishment of standardized libraries, and the promotion of analytical reading comprehension. The overarching goal is to instill a passion for reading that enriches knowledge. Moreover, there is a concerted effort to ensure student preparedness and well-being, garner parental support for educational endeavors, and cultivate avenues for literary expression through writing, national reading initiatives, competitions, and inclusive participation across societal strata.
The event also commemorated the 8th National Reading Day, a collaborative initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports, alongside the Association of Book Publishers in Cambodia. From March 10 to 12, 2023, under the theme "Reading is the Path to the Evolution of Education," this celebration accentuated the pivotal role of reading in educational progression.
