Cambodia Focuses on Youth Development, Sending Delegates to Russia and Europe for National Advancement

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Royal Palace, Kuoy Sophoal, has advised youth delegates participating in the 2026 World Youth Festival in Russia and scholarship students pursuing master's and doctoral degrees in France and the Czech Republic to diligently acquire knowledge and experience to serve and develop the nation. During a meeting with approximately 45 youth delegates and scholarship students at the Royal Palace on September 9, 2026, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the crucial role of knowledge in nation-building and development. He highlighted that human capital is the core force for national progress. Sophoal recalled the sacrifices and leadership acumen of Prime Minister Hun Sen, who has consistently valued and provided opportunities for both previous generations (including himself) and the current youth to receive higher education and profound knowledge. Under the umbrella of peace, Prime Minister Hun Sen has paved the way and created an environment for young people to pursue further studies both domestically and internationally, allowing them to absorb knowledge, hone skills, and understand global culture, civilization, geopolitics, economics, technology, environment, and various world evolutions. Sophoal urged the youth to adhere to the ancient Khmer principle of 'Su Chi Poli' (listen attentively, contemplate deeply, and understand the reasons), which is key to acquiring genuine knowledge. He advised them to ask questions to expand their understanding and to record important points as their assets. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of learning by observing from all angles, studying topics broadly and deeply, and mastering skills. This aligns with the ancient Khmer proverb, 'Knowing ten is not equal to mastering one,' emphasizing the need for both knowledge and practical expertise. Sophoal noted that possessing knowledge is the root of 'Samma Ditti' (right thinking), which is the starting point for all success. Sharing his nearly 40 years of work experience in the Ministry of the Royal Palace under the guidance of the late Minister of the Royal Palace and Senior Advisor to His Majesty the King, Sang Samol, Sophoal emphasized the importance of working with dedication and becoming indispensable to one's superiors, regardless of the workplace. He also urged the youth to adapt to the culture and context of the countries where they study, while simultaneously upholding Khmer culture and civilization to preserve national identity and widely disseminate the achievements of the government and national development to international friends. He strongly encouraged the youth to succeed in their studies and to return to serve the nation, whether in the public or private sector. Finally, Deputy Prime Minister Kuoy Sophoal wished all youth delegates and scholarship students a safe journey, success in their studies, and the bringing back of knowledge, experience, and honor to the motherland, along with continued success in their lives, careers, and families. In response, all youth delegates and scholarship students listened attentively with respect and admiration for the wisdom, work experience, and dedication of Deputy Prime Minister Kuoy Sophoal, particularly his high regard for youth knowledge and his spirit of patriotism towards the nation, religion, and the King. More details on the World Youth Festival 2026 can be found here: https://fna.asia/dd25a72