Cambodia to Maintain Strict Standards for 2026 Grade 12 Exams

PHNOM PENH, Aug 6, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining strict, transparent and merit‑based standards for the 2026 national Grade 12 examination, as authorities prepare for the nationwide tests scheduled for Aug 10, officials said Thursday. Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Hang Chuon Naron chaired a briefing for chief invigilators and examination committees at the National Institute of Education, joined by Om Yentieng, senior minister and president of the Anti‑Corruption Unit (ACU). The meeting reviewed procedures and responsibilities to ensure exams are conducted in line with legality, fairness and credibility under the long‑standing policy that “those who study will pass.” Yentieng praised cooperation between the ministry and ACU since reforms in 2014, describing them as a turning point in improving education quality and integrity. He recalled that the first year of reforms saw the pass rate fall to about 25 percent, but said strict standards eliminated bribery and cheating, encouraged professionalism among teachers and pushed students to rely on hard work. Naron said the reforms have motivated students to study harder, improved classroom instruction and created greater opportunities through a more credible system. He welcomed constructive feedback on strengthening science education and highlighted ongoing reforms in teacher development, school management and incentive policies to attract talented graduates. The safeguards including anonymous marking, independent verification and quality‑control mechanisms will continue to ensure the 2026 exam remains fair, transparent and credible.