In the esteemed presence of Prime Minister Dr. Hun Manet, Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC) and Platform Impact signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the MEDEF forum in Paris on January 15.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Lim Lina, Vice Chairperson of Canadia Group and OCIC, and Wisal Win, Chairman of Platform Impact.

The MoU solidifies the commitment of both organisations towards contributing resources and expertise to create a sustainable and impactful learning environment for students, focusing on inclusivity, innovation and skills development.

"We are thrilled to partner with OCIC to support inclusive and accessible skills development,” said Wisal Hin.

"Education is the cornerstone of progress, and by combining our strengths we can create a lasting impact on the lives of students, equipping them with the skills needed for a successful future."

Intended to foster education and technological empowerment, the goal of the MoU is to provide free tuition to students with or without degrees who are 18 years of age or older.

The partnership aims to support the establishment of an innovative computer programming school, inspired by those in France, at the Connexion sustainable work and lifestyle hub in Phnom Penh’s vibrant Koh Pich district.

Scheduled to launch in the first quarter of 2024, the Connexion Community Hub will house an innovation centre and incubator led by OCIC’s mother company, Canadia Group.

"We believe in the power of education to transform societies, by empowering our fellow citizens through upskilling and building opportunities," said Thierry Tea, Vice President at OCIC Group.

"This partnership with Platform Impact aligns with our shared values and  commitment to supporting initiatives that have a positive impact on youth, education and technology, ultimately contributing to Cambodia's future as well as its growth and development."

With this significant step, OCIC and Platform Impact are to jointly support the tech-educational ecosystem by offering high-quality, accessible and industry-relevant education in computer programming and software development.

And the MoU marks just the beginning of a collaborative journey for accelerating digital skills in Cambodia, with OCIC Group and Platform Impact looking forward to continuing to bridge the digital skills gaps and contributing to a brighter future for the Kingdom.