The 9th youth camp will be conducted from December 11 to 16 in Siem Reap province. PHOTO SUPPLIED
The ninth global youth camp, an annual initiative pioneered by former Prime Minister Hun Sen and in collaboration with Canadia Bank, will soon be underway. This year’s camp revolves around the theme “Youth Develop Under the Roof of Peace”, aiming to instil historical truth and foster an understanding of the value of peace among the next generation.
Sroy Socheat, director-general of youth at the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, announced the event will be conducted from December 11 to 16 in Siem Reap province. As chair of the Inter-Ministerial Commission, the ministry is taking the lead in orchestrating this significant event.
“We selected this theme for this year’s youth camp to underscore the paramount importance of peace as it offers a unique opportunity for the nation to invest in nurturing human resources,” she explained.
She said that in alignment with the National Policy on Youth Development, both the ministry and the National Youth Development Council play a crucial role in imparting knowledge and skills to the young. This equips them to serve as valuable assets to society and build promising careers for the future.
“This year’s camp theme isn’t coincidental; it’s a demonstration of historical truths and societal realities. It symbolises the understanding of peace values held by previous Cambodian youth and leaders, who worked tirelessly to seek and maintain peace on their enduring journey,” she said.
She added that it serves as a wake-up call for the public to recognise the confluence of progress in various social domains and the nation’s strides in youth development.
Socheat also highlighted the camp’s role in enhancing the skill set of the young, particularly in the realms of information technology and digital proficiencies. This aligns with the objectives of both the digital education reform strategy and the Cambodia Digital Government Policy 2022-35.
The programme seeks to equip young individuals with skills vital for fostering innovation and capitalising on career opportunities in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, or Industry 4.0. This encompasses comprehensive life skills training and facilitating connections within the community.
She noted that participation in this camp will result in a transformation of attitudes for both youth delegates and volunteers. It will encourage a shift towards positive thinking and the development of essential competencies, including leadership, creativity and effective communication.
Following its successful societal impact, the ministries and sponsors have decided to expand the number of delegates from 140 in 2022 to 250 this year.
Serey Chhumneas, ministry secretary of state and deputy chair of the inter-ministerial commission on youth, said during an orientation session for youth delegates and volunteers, said earlier this month that camping represents more than just a programme.
“It serves as a platform for forging new connections, acquiring life skills, enhancing creativity, sharing experiences and most importantly gaining insights into effective team leadership,” he said.
