UNESCO Urges Cambodian Ministry to Enhance Multilingual Education for Minorities and Factory Literacy

During the celebration of the 26th National Literacy Day in Ratanakiri Province on September 7th, Mr. Flavio Bonetti, Head of UNESCO Cambodia, urged the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport to continue promoting multilingual education programs for ethnic minorities, literacy programs for factory workers, and basic-level equivalency education programs. This initiative aims to respond to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Ministry of Education's 2024-2028 Strategic Plan. Mr. Bonetti commended Cambodia's efforts in raising the adult literacy rate to 85.5%, emphasizing that literacy is a fundamental human right and the foundation for lifelong learning. Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth and Sport, stated that literacy in the current context not only includes reading, writing, and arithmetic but also encompasses digital literacy, critical thinking, and lifelong vocational training skills. This is to enable all citizens, including children and youth out of school, workers, and ethnic minorities, to fully leverage technology and meet the demands of the job market in the digital age. The Deputy Prime Minister further noted that enhancing literacy and investing in human resource development significantly contribute to promoting socio-economic growth and maintaining peace, stability, and national sovereignty. He added that the Cambodian government is striving to protect territorial integrity and promote inclusive development in border areas through the construction of infrastructure, roads, schools, and health centers, ensuring that people in all regions receive equitable and sustainable educational and development opportunities. Additionally, a message from Prime Minister Hun Manet was conveyed, instructing relevant ministries and institutions to continue developing necessary policies and legal documents to expand the scope of literacy and digitalization programs, and to create educational and lifelong learning programs, especially for ethnic minorities and vulnerable groups. Local authorities are urged to facilitate community learning centers and suitable learning locations. Factory and enterprise owners are encouraged to continue opening literacy classes and providing vocational training to their employees. All media outlets are called upon to increase public awareness of the value of literacy and to strengthen cooperation and partnership between ministries, state institutions, development partners, NGOs, and the private sector to mobilize resources and enhance the quality of education. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Local