PM Hun Manet Pushes New Vocational Education Pathway in Cambodia

(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet called for the introduction of a third education stream in Cambodia, adding vocational education alongside the existing science and social science pathways. Speaking at the 9th National Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Day 2026 on Monday (Jun. 15), the premier stated that the Ministries of Education and Labour have been instructed to jointly develop the new pathway, which is currently being piloted in 49 high schools nationwide. “Previously, the Ministry of Education offered two streams: Science and Social Science. We are now adding a third stream,” the prime minister said. Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet said the government is continuing efforts to develop a comprehensive technical and vocational education and training system that broadens public understanding, equips citizens with practical skills, and promotes ethics and discipline in both daily life and the workplace. The initiative aims to provide flexible learning opportunities tailored to the needs of citizens, particularly youth and workers in the informal economy. The prime minister emphasised that the government's goal is to ensure that every citizen acquires at least one skill during their lifetime and that no Cambodian is left without employable skills. On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei emphasised that the vocational pathway is designed to help students prepare for careers in fields such as industrial technology, agro-industry, handicrafts, commerce, manufacturing, services, construction management, engineering assistance, mid-level technical professions, digital technology, and artificial intelligence (AI). The pathway will also offer opportunities for students who do not pass lower secondary school examinations but complete bridging programs, enabling them to continue developing practical skills and qualifications. The prime minister said the Ministries of Education and Labour began piloting the new education pathway during the 2025–2026 academic year at 49 high schools. The initiative primarily targets schools located near special economic zones and industrial parks, where students may wish to enter the labour market more quickly through vocational training aligned with their interests and abilities. In 2027, the government plans to assess five additional schools in Kandal, Svay Rieng, Pursat, and Kampong Speu provinces for inclusion in the programme. Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also expressed support for Labour Minister Heng Sour's initiative to establish mobile vocational training classrooms, which aim to bring skills training directly to communities.=FRESH NEWS