PRESS RELEASE: Five New School Buildings Lay a Strong Foundation for Lifelong Learning for Children in Preah Vihear
Preah Vihear Province, Cambodia – 26 March 2026 – Five newly constructed school buildings, comprising 21 classrooms, were officially inaugurated today in five primary schools in Kulen, Choam Ksant and Rovieng Districts, Preah Vihear Province. Built in some of the most remote areas, these schools are expected to support the learning of over 500 children across five villages each year, including those affected by the recent border conflict—laying a strong foundation for their learning and future in life.
The initiative reflects a strong partnership between World Vision International in Cambodia, Action Education (Former Aide et Action) International, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, and the Provincial Administration, Provincial Departments, with the shared goal of improving access to inclusive, quality education for all children—especially the most vulnerable.
The inauguration ceremony brought together Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth and Sport; Provincial Governor; and Heads of Provincial Departments of Education, development partners, local authorities, teachers, parents, and students to celebrate this important milestone.
These new facilities will provide safe, child-friendly, and resilient learning spaces for children who have faced disruption due to displacement and instability. The project also equipped the school buildings with solar power systems and latrines, ensuring access to electricity and improved sanitation for students and teachers. The schools are expected to significantly improve school attendance, reduce dropout rates, and enhance learning outcomes in these underserved communities.
Mr. Janes Immanuel Ginting, National Director of World Vision International in Cambodia, emphasised the importance of reaching the most vulnerable:
“These school buildings, located in remote and hard-to-reach areas, are a lifeline for children. Together with our partners, we are ensuring that every child has a safe place to learn, recover, and build a better future. This is not only an investment in infrastructure, but in hope, resilience, and life transformation.”
H.E. Kim Rithy, Governor of Preah Vihear Province, highlighted the significance of the intervention for affected communities:
“For children and families in these remote and conflict-affected areas, access to education is essential for recovery and long-term development. We deeply appreciate the strong collaboration between the Ministry of Education and our development partners in making these new schools a reality for our communities.”
Mr. Vorn Samphors, Country Director of Action Education International in Cambodia, underscored the strength of the partnership and its impact:
“The schools are the result of a joint effort between Action Education, World Vision, and the Cambodian government. This partnership demonstrates how we can respond effectively to the needs of children in challenging contexts. By building schools in remote areas, we are helping ensure continuity of learning, protect education, and promote inclusive education for all.”
The establishment of these schools is a key initiative of the Cambodia Consortium for Out of School Children, aimed at enhancing educational access, boosting teacher capacity, and promoting community involvement across various provinces.
This initiative aligns with Cambodia’s national education priorities, including the Pentagonal Strategy – Phase 1 and the Education Strategic Plan, reinforcing a collective commitment to strengthening an inclusive and resilient education system.
Further information, please contact
Mr. Samphors VORN, Country Director at Action Education International in Cambodia
Phone: +855 77 777 847 | Email: samphors.vorn@action-education.org
Ms. Sar Pisey, Senior Public Engagement Specialist, World Vision International in Cambodia
Phone: +855 85 605 069 | Email: pisey_sar@wvi.org