Cambodian Unions Back RPL Program for Returning Migrant Workers

Major Cambodian trade unions have expressed their full satisfaction and strong support for the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program, which assists former migrant workers returning from Thailand by officially certifying their skills and practical experience gained abroad. This initiative is seen as crucial for enabling these workers to obtain formal certification, secure better employment opportunities, achieve higher salaries, and advance in their careers. Mr. Sam Sueon, President of the National Federation of Cambodian Labour Unions, told reporters at the National Technical Training Institute (NTTI) that he supports the government's initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, to implement the RPL program for returning Cambodian workers from Thailand. He emphasized the program's significance in converting practical experience and learning acquired abroad into official national skill certificates. Mr. Kong Athith, President of the Cambodian Labour Confederation (CLC), also lauded the RPL program, noting its flexibility in strengthening or adapting skills to meet current labour market demands. He highlighted that while such formal skill recognition programs were previously lacking, the government's establishment of the RPL program presents a "golden opportunity" for former workers who possess skills and experience but lack formal documentation. Mr. Kong Athith urged returning Cambodian workers from Thailand to actively participate in the RPL testing to gain official recognition of their skills, which he believes will facilitate their job search and lead to higher remuneration. Mr. Sok Hach, a former migrant worker who underwent RPL testing, shared his experience working as an electrician on construction sites in Thailand for three years. He gained valuable knowledge working alongside foreign professionals on electrical system installations in various buildings and factories. However, upon returning to Cambodia, he faced difficulties finding employment due to the lack of formal certification for his acquired skills. Upon learning about the RPL program from a friend who had already received a skill certificate and was informed that the testing was free, Mr. Sok Hach decided to register. He stated, "My three years of work in Thailand were not easy, but the income was not significantly higher than working in my home country. Now that I have obtained an additional certificate, it will make it easier for me to find new employment and earn a higher income." Following the high recommendation of Prime Minister Hun Manet and to contribute to skills development and encourage former Cambodian workers from Thailand to receive official skill recognition, the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training has been organizing free RPL assessments for eight vocational skills in the construction sector since April 2026. Source: AKP Khmer