The new pathways will focus on science, social sciences and vocational tracks, starting from grade 10. Post Staff
The Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports is preparing to pilot new “education pathways” from grade 10 and up, to help students make informed decisions about their future careers.
The announcement was made at the June 10 “Preparing to Implement New Education Pathways in Secondary Schools” event, which was chaired by education minister Hang Chuon Naron.
“The ministry will pilot new education pathways, including science, social sciences and vocational tracks, starting from grade 10 in high schools located near special economic zones and areas with significant economic activity,” said Chuon Naron.
He added that the ministry will also implement a new “career-oriented education programme” for students in grades 7 to 9.
The initiative aligns with the goals set by Prime Minister Hun Manet, who spoke at a February meeting held to summarise the ministry’s work in the 2023-2024 academic year and outline goals for the 2024-2025 academic year.
The prime minister instructed the ministry to strengthen technical education and implement three “educational pathways”: natural sciences, social sciences and vocational education pathways in schools.
These initiatives aim to provide students and young people with diverse paths to successful careers.
According to an education ministry statement, a review of the new pathways is being conducted in response to the evolving demands of the education system and the economy, both regionally and globally.
Education minister Hang Chuon Naron chairs a June 10 meeting on the implementation of the new pathways. Education ministry
The pathways are designed to be flexible, focusing on students’ abilities and interests.
They aim to address a shortage of skilled human capital, respond to Cambodia’s economic structure, reduce the dropout rate in secondary schools, promote higher education — particularly in STEM skills — and increase the rate of students acquiring the technical and vocational skills which are needed in the labour market.
“The development of educational pathways that take into account diverse aspects will stimulate discussions on modernizing the education system and curriculum,” noted Chuon Naron.
“This will guide students in each school community, determine investment opportunities and adapt educational paths according to school conditions, as well as establish teacher qualifications in line with the educational paths and school circumstances,” he added.
He explained that this approach will offer benefits such as the creation of scientific programmes and opportunities for outstanding students, while strengthening connections and flexibility between general education and technical and vocational training pathways.
The ministry is currently preparing draft “Guidelines on Orientation, Implementation of Technical Education and Career Guidance”.
It will issue instructions to all secondary schools to implement academically oriented education programs that will help students understand themselves, prepare their study and career plans, and make decisions on their educational paths starting from grade 10.
