French NGO Toutes à l’École at the Happy Chandara School has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC) in Phnom Penh, marking a shared commitment to support the development of young underprivileged women.

Following their first MoU, signed in May 2024 – which provided students with professional experience through OCIC internship programmes – this year’s collaboration aims to continue and expand support to a wider age group of girls through broader community engagement, extracurricular activities and sustainability initiatives.

“Education is the foundation for creating meaningful opportunities,” said Thierry Tea, OCIC Vice-President. “Our partnership with Toutes à l’École underscores our dedication to supporting girls in Cambodia as they pursue their dreams.”

Founded in 2005 by French journalist Tina Kieffer, Toutes à l’École provides free high-quality education and healthcare to more than 1,700 underprivileged girls ranging from pre-schoolers to high school graduates, empowering them to overcome social and economic barriers.

The students come from underprivileged backgrounds, mainly from nearby communities. Despite these odds, the school maintains a 100% success rate in baccalaureate exams, with over 400 students actively pursuing post-baccalaureate programs, excelling academically, and striving for higher education or meaningful careers.

”Educating girls is not just about empowering individuals”, explained Kieffer. “It’s about saving the planet. By investing in their education, we’re building a future where Cambodia thrives and the planet is protected."

Beyond academics, Toutes à l’École fosters a deep commitment to sustainability. At the Happy Chandara campus, students participate in environmental workshops, cultivate vegetable gardens and learn amidst a biodiverse, tree-lined setting. The NGO aims to inspire a generation of Cambodians dedicated to supporting their country and protecting the planet.

The collaboration with OCIC and the Green Oasis initiative adds new dimensions to these efforts, connecting education with tangible actions for sustainability. Moreover, the Happy Chandara campus has become a sustaining ecosystem, supporting student's families, providing employment opportunities for local residents and fostering a strong connection with the surrounding community.

Together, OCIC and Toutes à l’École remain committed to empowering Cambodia’s next generation through education, sustainability, and opportunity.