Cambodia's Education Must Adapt to AI Era, Strengthen Human Skills: PM Hun Manet

PHNOM PENH, Aug 6, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet has urged the country’s education system to adapt to the rapid advance of artificial intelligence while ensuring students continue to develop critical thinking and practical skills, warning against over‑reliance on technology. Speaking at a graduation ceremony and the inauguration of a new academic building at the Royal University of Law and Economics on Thursday, Samdech Thipadei said AI should support people rather than replace them. “AI can facilitate human work, but it cannot and must not replace humans,” he said. The premier cautioned that workers who depend entirely on AI risk becoming less valuable in the job market. “If humans cannot work without AI, then AI will replace humans. AI will replace your ability, and companies will need AI rather than people,” he said. Samdech Thipadei stressed that schools and universities must set clear guidelines on the appropriate use of AI, balancing tasks that benefit from technology with those requiring students’ own analysis. “The skills you possess are crucial. AI and technology can increase the quantity of work, but human skills must continue to play the decisive role,” he said. He also called for greater emphasis on technical abilities, work ethic, behaviour and attitudes alongside academic knowledge. Both public and private institutions should work with the government to strengthen Cambodia’s education system so graduates are prepared to compete in an increasingly technology‑driven world. Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet said Cambodia must embrace technological change while ensuring education continues to produce graduates with creativity, resilience and the ability to think independently – qualities he described as essential for the country’s long‑term competitiveness.