Cambodia Hailed as Regional Model for Health and Sexuality Education Integration

PHNOM PENH, July 22, 2026 (KPT) – The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has recognized Cambodia as a regional model for integrating comprehensive health and sexuality education into its national school curriculum. This reform is seen as instrumental in improving adolescent health and preparing a more productive generation to support long-term development. The acknowledgment was made during a meeting between UNFPA Representative Sandra Bernklau and Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Hang Chuon Naron. Both parties reiterated their commitment to strengthening cooperation in youth health, education, and human capital development. Bernklau stated that Cambodia's successful integration of comprehensive sexuality education has positioned the country as an example of how education can enhance adolescent well-being. She emphasized that investing in young people's health is among the most crucial steps for building a skilled workforce capable of driving Cambodia's demographic and economic transformation. Under its 2026–2029 Strategic Plan, UNFPA will continue to collaborate with the ministry and partners to boost investment in school health, early childhood education, youth leadership, and skills development, while also addressing social challenges and maximizing Cambodia’s demographic dividend. Naron highlighted the government's efforts to tackle issues such as child marriage, teenage pregnancy, and school dropout through initiatives like the Health Promoting School Standards and School Health Room Standards. He also pointed to programs aimed at empowering youth, including Volunteer for My Community, the National Youth Debate Program, and Youth Councils. The Deputy Prime Minister expressed gratitude to UNFPA for facilitating Asian Development Bank financing to support school health initiatives. He reaffirmed Cambodia’s backing for the UN80 reform initiative, stating that continued investment in youth potential would strengthen human capital and underpin inclusive growth.