Scott Neeson, the founder and executive director of the Cambodian Children’s Fund, was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Social Work from St Elizabeth University of Health and Social Sciences in Slovakia yesterday.

The former Hollywood executive’s foundation recently opened the Neeson Cripps Academy, a five-storey state-of-the-art school about 300 metres from the capital’s former landfill in Steung Meanchey for underprivileged students.

According to a CCF press release, the organisation currently provides free medical and health care treatment to over 30,000 children and community members yearly, feeds 400 hungry children daily with the evening food program and has educated over 3,000 students from kindergarten to university.

“Mr Neeson has worked tirelessly through his organization to ensure that those who are oppressed by the worst poverty receive a reasonable standard of healthcare, education and financial security. His work has transformed the lives of many Cambodians – giving them dignity and changing the way they see themselves and the world.

His leadership serves as a role model for us all,” said Dr Vladimir Krcmery, the university founder and rector. Neeson joins King Norodom Sihamoni as a recipient of the degree.