Phnom Penh, 17 July 2024: Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports, emphasized that education is a long-term investment that can help Cambodian people escape poverty and drive national development. He highlighted that about 75% of student teachers are children of farmers from remote villages who have excelled in their studies and passed the teacher exam. Some of these students have continued their education in Phnom Penh or abroad, bringing honor and pride to their families and society.

Dr. Naron made these remarks during a meeting with education staff from the Department of Education, Youth, and Sports in Banteay Meanchey Province on the afternoon of July 16, 2024.

He stressed that strengthening the education sector is key to the sustainable development of Cambodia. This effort requires contributions from individuals with professional skills, including smart farmers, industry experts, and trade specialists.

To support this goal, the Ministry has introduced five model school standards ranging from kindergarten to secondary school:

1. Student Outcomes

2. Teaching and Learning

3. Community Involvement

4. School Operations and Administration

5. School Accountability

The Ministry will continue to encourage schools nationwide to compete to meet these standards and become model schools. Through this initiative, the Ministry aims to improve the quality of education and student learning outcomes, and to ensure that teachers in Cambodia are respected and honored in society.

Dr. Hang Chuon Naron also highlighted that the Royal Government, through the Ministry of Education and Youth, is focused on promoting teachers by implementing action plans and policies to increase salaries, enhance teacher qualifications, and improve school infrastructure. Efforts include reviewing curricula and textbooks, improving school governance, and reforming higher education.