Cambodia Shares Experiences on Local Authorities' Role in Building Model Public Service Delivery Units in Education and Health Sectors

The Ministry of Health of Cambodia organized a workshop on July 23, 2026, at the Ministry of Interior building in Phnom Penh, to share experiences on the role of local authorities in building model public service delivery units in the education and health sectors. The workshop was co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Hun Many, Minister of Civil Service and President of the National Evaluation Committee for Public Service Delivery Units, and Deputy Prime Minister Sar Sokha, Minister of Interior. Representatives from the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, and local authorities at all levels also participated, both in person and online, with a total of approximately 5,000 participants. Professor Chheang Ra, Minister of Health, stated that improving the health and well-being of citizens is a key priority for human capital development within the first phase of the "Pentagon Strategy." He also emphasized that expanding healthcare services towards universal health coverage is the first priority of the six priority policy programs of the government of the 7th mandate of the National Assembly. In this regard, the Ministry of Health encourages health units at all levels to continue their efforts with dynamism, proactivity, and high responsibility in providing healthcare services to the people. Professor Chheang Ra noted that the evaluation of model public service delivery units creates opportunities for the health sector to further strengthen institutional capacity and the resilience of the health system, in collaboration with related sectors within a single unit. This contributes to the continuous improvement of the health status of the people, aiding in the achievement of universal health coverage in Cambodia by 2035 and the realization of Cambodia's Vision 2050. Professor Chheang Ra observed that the success of model public service delivery units is linked to the active participation of the units themselves, support from citizens, communities, and development partners, and especially the involvement of local authorities at all levels. This participation is indispensable in promoting and developing hospitals and health centers, including providing resources, vision, direction, and cooperation, leading to better quality public service delivery and increasing public confidence in healthcare services. Professor Chheang Ra highlighted that based on the experience of evaluating model public service units in the education and health sectors, it reflects good governance in managing and delivering healthcare services to the people with confidence and quality. It also shows a steady increase in the participation of local health units, with innovation in developing and improving service delivery processes through: 1. Efforts to improve management processes and human resource development, especially sharing new knowledge and experiences both within and outside the unit to respond to medical advancements and the needs of serving the public. 2. Organizing and maintaining a clean, hygienic, and green environment within health facilities, along with effective management of medical waste, solid waste, liquid waste, and rainwater. 3. Greater accountability and transparency in unit management, including planning, budget implementation, and preparing accurate reports in compliance with current legal standards. 4. Continuous improvement of physical infrastructure, resource support from local authorities, community participation, and strengthening the 24/7 service delivery process. Professor Chheang Ra encouraged local authorities and health units to continue to pay further attention and promote within their jurisdictions in building, developing, and improving the quality and efficiency of public service delivery to the people. Source: AKP Khmer