Education minister Hang Chuon Naron visits a student exhibition at the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC) on May 5. Supplied
The 14th Scientific Day, themed “Leveraging R&D for Innovation and Growth” was held at the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC) on May 5, with the aim of celebrating the power of research and development in driving Cambodia’s progress.
“This is also an important platform for sharing knowledge, experiences and research findings between domestic and foreign institutions and the private sector, and to enhance partnerships in joint training and research,” said Hang Chuon Naron, Minister of Education, Youth and Sport, who chaired the event.
He noted that the event offered an opportunity for researchers and students to showcase their findings, network with industry experts, gain recognition in the research community and provide high school students with a deeper understanding of STEM subjects at ITC.
This helped better prepare students for their future studies and careers.
A conference on the same topic, held on May 5-6, was attended by representatives from the EU, the French embassy, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the French Development Agency in Cambodia, professors and students, along with national and international private sector representatives.
The education minister emphasised the importance of research and development in driving innovation across all sectors to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of production, services and industrial processes, as well as in fostering collaboration between academic institutions and industries.
He also discussed the government’s efforts to create a conducive environment for innovation and highlighted recent studies on the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI).
“While some fear that AI will replace human jobs, others believe it helps streamline human work, improve efficiency and promote learning. It is essential for people to continue developing their capabilities and skills to maximize the benefits of AI advancement,” he noted.
The minister explained that the government is implementing a strategy to promote research and innovation through partnerships among academic institutions, industries and the government to foster economic diversification, private sector development and a digital society.
The ministry launched the Education Strategic Plan 2024-2028, which aims to ensure that all Cambodians have access to quality, equitable and inclusive education, with a focus on strengthening knowledge, 21st-century skills, discipline, ethics, health, fitness and lifelong learning.
The Science Conference, organized annually by ITC, began as a local forum and became international in 2022.
It serves as a platform for academics, researchers, engineers and industry professionals to discuss advancements in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) for sustainable development. The 13th event, held on June 6-7, 2024, attracted 1,500 participants.
