The Minister of Education, Youth and Sport announced plans to expand the model school programme, integrate digital learning and promote waste-free school initiatives as part of broader education reforms for the 2024-2025 academic year. 

Minister Hang Chuon Naron made the announcement during a provincial education conference in Pursat, attended by senior officials, educators and stakeholders.

He explained that model schools will continue to be a cornerstone of the government’s education policy, with 130 new schools set to receive model status this year. 

This follows the 120 schools that were awarded the designation in previous years. In 2023-2024, 793 schools were selected as target schools for implementation of model school standards, including 96 preschools, 348 primary schools and 349 secondary schools.

“The ministry is committed to enhancing educational quality by focusing on five key standards: student performance, teaching and learning, community involvement, operational school administration and school accountability,” said the minister.

“To attain the status of a model standard school spanning from kindergarten to secondary levels, the ministry has outlined essential measures and indicators,” he added.

He explained that these encompass enhancing school governance, revising and designing curricula and tailoring extracurricular activities to bolster students’ knowledge, discipline, ethics and behaviour.

In line with global education trends, the ministry is also prioritising digital transformation in schools. One key initiative is the establishment of a technology centre in Pursat province, aimed at enhancing digital literacy and AI-based learning. 

The project, starting with a pilot phase, seeks to connect students with modern learning tools and prepare them for the demands of the digital economy.

The model school programme will continue to be a cornerstone of the government’s education policy, with 130 new schools set to receive model school status this year. Yousos Apdoulrashim

Additionally, a 21st-century library will be set up to support digital education, linking institutions such as Preah Sisowath High School with other schools nationwide. 

“Technology is rapidly changing education, and we must adapt by incorporating AI and digital tools to enhance learning and teaching,” noted Naron.

Another notable initiative introduced at the conference is the waste-free school competition, aimed at promoting environmental responsibility among students. 

Naron said high schools across Pursat province will compete to transform their campuses into waste-free environments, encouraging sustainable habits and cleanliness.

As part of ongoing education sector reforms, the ministry stressed the importance of school infrastructure, teacher quality, student well-being and parental involvement. 

Naron highlighted four key factors essential for driving effective education reform in Cambodia. 

First, he emphasised the importance of improving the school environment through investments in infrastructure, such as laboratories and computer rooms, alongside strengthening school leadership. 

Second, he stressed the need to foster student development by encouraging independent learning, critical thinking, and prioritising student well-being. 

Third, the minister underscored the significance of teacher training, advocating for continuous professional development, salary increases and elevating the status of teachers in society. 

Lastly, he called for enhanced parental engagement, urging stronger cooperation between schools and families to better support student success.

The outcomes of the Pursat conference will contribute to the National Education Conference, scheduled for February 2025, where education strategies for the coming years will be finalised.