Representing over 100 private educational institutions, training centres, education associations and technology companies, the Federation of Education Services in Cambodia participated in the 2023 World School Summit in Malaysia. 

The annual summit, held in Malaysia from November 28 to 30, aims to foster discussions and exchange best practices, contributing to the enhancement of quality private education across the region.

Leading a delegation of the federation members, Kong Samneang, head of the federation, said that international event serves as a platform for education professionals and policymakers to engage in exchanges and discussions on best practices in education.

He said that the summit also recognises excellence by awarding outstanding schools and presenting honorary degrees to professionals who have made significant contributions to positive changes in the field of education.

“This marks the first participation of the private education sector in this summit. We will address challenges in Cambodia and across Asia, seeking innovative solutions and strategies to advance education in alignment with regional and global educational considerations,” he said.

Malaysia hosted this year’s World School Summit, drawing participants from Cambodia, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Nepal, India, Thailand and Vietnam. 

Khuon Vicheka, spokesperson for the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, noted the importance of the private education sector’s involvement in this event. She said it aligns with the government’s Pentagonal Strategy, which strongly encourages private sector participation.

“Involvement of the private sector complements offering parents and students choices in education, aligning with the programmes parents desire for their children. Having diverse options is a positive outcome for the future, ensuring a variety of professional resources to meet labour market needs and fostering national economic development,” she said.

During a recent Government Private Sector Forum (GPSF), Prime Minister Hun Manet outlined the government’s key strategies for youth development. These encompass enhancing education, sports, science and technology quality, fostering technical skills training, and reinforcing civic engagement. 

Addressing the importance of preparing young people for the job market, leadership roles and future opportunities, the prime minister noted the necessity for collaboration from all stakeholders, with a particular focus on the private sector, to implement these strategies across the national education sector.

“The involvement of the private sector is a crucial catalyst in realising the government’s vision to become a high-middle-income country by 2030 and a high-income country by 2050,” Manet said.