PHNOM PENH: The new academic year of the general education in Cambodia will kick off on Monday, 10 of January.

On the occasion of the award ceremony for Cambodian Petanque Gol Medalist Ouk Sreymom, Prime Minister Hun Sen has announced kindergartens with children from 3 to 5 years old are allowed to reopen.

At the Peace Palace this Wednesday morning, Samdech Techo Hun Sen announced the reopening of all kindergartens, thanks to the high level of herd immunity against COVID-19 in the country.

It’s another step to ensure the country is fully reopened and distancing itself from the hardships of the 20 February Community Transmission, which has lasted 10 months, ending on 20 of December.

The Prime Minister has also stated that such decision will allow not only for pupils to be in class and learn how to socialize with teachers and colleagues, but will also give more freedom for parents to work and earn more income.

According to the Prime Minister, around 3 million students are going to start their academic year next week.

Cambodia announced the closure of schools across the country, including kindergartens, on 16 March 2020.

Currently, Cambodia achieved 101.57% vaccination of the population aged 18 and over, 99.15% of 12-17 years old and 105.30% of the age of 6-11 years old.