Neeson Cripps Academy’s (NCA) female students will receive mentorships from Solent University students online for four months. Photo supplied
In a new initiative – launched on International Women’s Day – five female students from the Neeson Cripps Academy (NCA) in Cambodia will be mentored by five students from the UK’s Solent University, with a focus on empowering young women in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects.
The pioneering programme, established by the Cambodian Children’s Fund (CCF) – an NGO founded by former Hollywood executive Scott Neeson – and set to run for four months, leverages the power of online mentorship to bridge the gap between girls from disadvantaged communities in Cambodia and UK university students.
“The programme aims to introduce Cambodian girls to the myriad opportunities of the STEM subjects, areas where females remain underrepresented in Cambodia,” said an NCA press release.
By connecting these young women with UK students who are currently studying criminology, the initiative will not only offer guidance and knowledge but will also inspire these girls by introducing them to role models.
Weekly video calls will provide the basis of the exchange.
The CCF drew attention to the importance of female students engaging in STEM subjects, highlighting engineering and similar fields as feasible career paths.
The mentorship scheme is seen as a critical step in challenging the status quo, and aims to fill the skills gap in Cambodia’s science and technology industries with a new generation of empowered women.
Lea Phorn, the education projects officer at CCF who is overseeing the project, noted the capacity of the programme to enhance the students’ understanding of global education pathways, boost their confidence and improve their English proficiency.
“It will allow our students to learn more about the world, and the options that are possible through education,” said Phorn.
“By sharing experiences with the Solent University students, I believe this expanded social network will also improve their confidence and English. We’re all excited to work with the university and hopefully form lasting friendships,” she added.
Nigel Lee, senior lecturer in criminology at the UK university, highlighted the mutual benefits of the mentorship, part of the longstanding collaboration between Solent University and the CCF.
“Mentoring has a positive impact on both the mentor and mentee, and I am delighted that five of our criminology students are embarking on this journey,” said Lee.
“Over the last 10 years, I have seen the important work the CCF does. To collaborate with them on this and other projects, to empower young women and champion their futures is an honour,” he added.
Participants on both sides of the mentorship express enthusiasm and optimism about the opportunities for growth and connection.
Mey Sreyphkay, a 16-year-old NCA student, shared her excitement and slight nervousness about interacting with the UK students, seeing it as a chance to learn about a new culture and gain valuable educational experience.
“I am excited that I can communicate with UK students and learn from them. This programme is unique. I feel nervous because it is a new experience, but I’m looking forward to it. Sharing our lives and learning about another country and culture will also be interesting,” she said.
On the other side, Sophie Graydon, a 20-year-old criminology student at Solent University, reflected on the importance of mentoring as a means to support and connect with girls from different backgrounds.
“Having the chance to be able to listen to these girls’ experiences and support them, sharing my own experiences along the way to hopefully impact them positively, is amazing,” she said.
“To me, mentoring is important as it is a way to give back and build connections with girls who I would have never had the chance to meet otherwise,” she added.
The programme highlights the efforts of CCF and Solent University to champion STEM education for girls.
For nearly 20 years, CCF has been a pillar in the Stung Meanchey community – once home to the capital’s notorious dump – offering essential support and services.
Their work has improved the lives of countless children and their families, helping them to lead better lives.
Currently, the programme supports approximately 1,800 children, from nursery through to university. Additionally, CCF delivers medical care, runs community outreach initiatives and offers housing support.
