The ministry says the allegations undermine the code of ethics at the ministry and the dignity of education staff. hean rangsey
The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport has denied allegations that paperwork is being tampered with in order to selectively promote staff and increase salary scales.
The ministry said in a press release on Tuesday that the allegations undermined the code of ethics at the ministry and the dignity of the education staff.
“There has not been any irregularity regarding paperwork to promote anyone to a position or rank or increase salary scales.
“Allegations to the contrary seriously undermine the dignity and ethics of the education staff and the institutions’ reputation,” the ministry said.
The ministry said in order to provide clarification, the ministry has collected all the legal documents regarding staff evaluation based on the position and salary criteria as determined by law.
The ministry said the change of a civil servant’s salary can only be achieved through actions of the government. Changes in the ranks of civil servants must be made through official pathways which are organised by the government.
“The minimum time limit for a promotion is two years and it must be properly requested,” the ministry said.
The ministry urged education staff at all levels to disseminate the press release, to eliminate any falsehoods and improve the staffs’ education on such matters.
Ministry spokesman Ros Soveacha declined to comment, referring The Post to the press release.
Cambodian Independent Teachers’ Association (Cita) president Ouk Chhayavy said that every junior and senior official who wants to be promoted to a higher rank often interferes with the paperwork or, in some cases, offers bribes.
She said: “This is routine in Cambodia. It happens a lot and it is something that has become very common in our country. This is the corruption that the Cita has always requested the government to do something to reform our system.”
Chhayavy said the Cita submitted a letter every October 5, requesting the ministry to avoid bribe and corruption in education.
“Our demonstration is to highlight the need for transparency, so that graduating students get into work by achievement and earn their positions on merit, not corruption.
“Even today, teachers who have worked for many years have lower positions than the younger generation.
“This is compounded by the recent reforms that make older people struggle, because the younger people just beginning work are paid the same or above a teacher with many years of seniority,” she said.
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