Minister of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction Say Samal envisions Cambodia’s smooth journey to high-income status by 2050, buoyed by the “continuous and swift” development of human resources. 

Sharing his optimism during his January 3 meeting with scholarship students bound for advanced studies in New Zealand, Australia and France, the minister highlighted ongoing efforts in the development of five key areas: human resources, electricity, water, roads and technology.

This aligns with the government’s commitment to fostering growth, marking the initial phase of its Pentagonal Strategy. 

“As our human resources continue to develop, I foresee Cambodia nurturing a skilled workforce fully capable of propelling the country towards becoming a high-income nation by 2050,” Samal said.

He also discussed political and economic developments with the students, noting that their pending experience is an opportunity for them to learn, put theory into practice, understand what to avoid and enhance their personal development.

He also underscored their role in contributing to the growth of the society upon their return.

Read: Leadership urges unity in pursuit of 2050 target

According to Samal, the students are committed, planning to return home upon graduation to join the government in developing the nation according to their potential and new skills.

Kong Somneang, head of the Federation of Education Services in Cambodia, said on January 3 that achieving the national goal requires collaboration from all stakeholders, encompassing not only the young but also the old and younger generations.

“Consider how the youth can contribute to making Cambodia a high-income country by 2050. The key lies in education and skills development. It’s fortunate for Cambodia that our new generations have opportunities to receive scholarships for education in developed countries,” he said.

“Yet, let’s not limit our interest to bachelor’s degree training alone. Instead, we should also prioritise vocational skills,” he said.

He added that when Cambodian students complete their studies abroad and return home to establish businesses, they play a crucial role in boosting the national economy.

A total of 68 scholarship students – with 35 heading to New Zealand, 30 to Australia and five to France – will study various subjects like engineering science, political science, education, urban design, midwifery, public health, entrepreneurship and innovation, public policy and biological techniques.