The Union Youth Federations of Cambodia (UYFC) and the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to increase outreach programmes which promote technical and vocational training, as well as employment opportunities for youth.

The March 26 signing took place under in the presence Deputy Prime Minister Hun Many, in his capacity as head of the UYFC, and labour minister Heng Sour. 

The MoU is aimed at extending awareness of the vocational training that is available to members of the UYFC, especially those from impoverished families, and providing access to information about positions that are available.

“The mission and vision of the UYFC is to play a role in connecting the older generation with the younger. The older people are the foundation which now support the youth. We must all come together to contribute to nation building,” said Many.

Sour explained that the cooperation came about after the ministry identified the potential of utilising the UYFC’s networks, which extend across the Kingdom. Working with them will be beneficial, as it will allow the ministry to share its training programmes with the federation members, as well as the youth in general.

Hong Vanak, director of International Economics at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, noted that the Kingdom has a young population, while also highlighting the fact that UYFC members have a perfect perspective to understand what young people need.

“If the UYFC can be used to share information about vocational and technical training to other youth, it will be very effective,” he said.

“Acquiring at least one employable skill is important. When a person meets the requirements for a specific job, they will be in a position to help themselves, their families and the nation,” he added.