Phnom Penh, March 22, 2024 – In a significant step towards strengthening educational ties, Cambodia and the Philippines have reaffirmed their commitment to continue their cooperative efforts in the field of education.

This pledge came during a meeting in Phnom Penh between Hang Chuon Naron, Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports, and Sara Z. Duterte, the Vice President and Secretary of Education of the Philippines, as well as the President of the SEAMEO Council, on March 21.

The discussions included a review of the ongoing progress at the Southeast Asia Centre for Technical Education Development. This center, established in 2007 in Phnom Penh, has been a cornerstone of the educational collaboration between the two nations.

Key topics of the meeting also encompassed an exchange of insights and strategies on special education, with a particular focus on enhancing early childhood education and integrating technical and vocational training programs in high schools. These programs aim to create seamless transitions to higher education in collaboration with private sector partners.

Hang Chuon Naron expressed his gratitude towards the Philippine government for offering scholarships to 60 Cambodian students, facilitating their participation in technical and vocational training programs. He expressed hope for the further expansion of this bilateral cooperation.

Sara Z. Duterte lauded the significant advancements in Cambodia's educational sector, highlighting the positive impact of ongoing collaborative efforts between the two countries.