Cambodia: 90% of TVET Graduates Find Employment, Equivalence to Higher Education Stressed

Kampala -- On July 18, 2026, the Techo Sen Kompot Regional Polytechnic Institute celebrated the graduation of 514 students (300 women), with Minister of Labour and Vocational Training, Heng Sour, presiding over the ceremony. Among the successful graduates who completed their studies were those awarded technical and vocational diplomas of levels 1, 2, and 3, as well as advanced technical diplomas and technical bachelor's degrees. Speaking to over 1,800 attendees, Minister Heng Sour congratulated the graduating students, stating that their success stems from the right decision to pursue Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a bridge to building a proper future. He reiterated Prime Minister Hun Manet's assertion that TVET is not a second-tier or inferior education but holds equal value to general education, meeting labor market demands and contributing to the future of individuals, families, and the nation. "The pursuit of TVET skills is a valuable investment in human capital and a core force for national economic development," the Minister stated. He highlighted that approximately 90% of graduates from the institute find employment, demonstrating the quality of training and its responsiveness to market needs. Minister Heng Sour urged students to engage in lifelong learning, particularly in strengthening soft skills, enhancing and changing their skill sets, and leveraging modern technology and artificial intelligence to boost their competitiveness and career advancement opportunities. He also encouraged parents to continue supporting their children in choosing TVET for their future and for improving family livelihoods. He advised the institute's leadership and instructors to further enhance training quality, expand cooperation with the private sector, and update curricula to align with labor market demands. This aligns with the goals of "at least one lifelong skill per citizen" and "study to graduate, learn, and get a job." The Minister noted that Kampot province is experiencing significant investment potential and a growing demand for skilled labor. Concurrently, Tak Hab, Chairman of the Kampot Provincial Council, advised the graduates to effectively utilize their acquired knowledge, skills, and diplomas in their work, performing their duties with high responsibility and continuing to develop their capacities to contribute to their own development, their families, their organizations, and the nation. Chrun Kimleng, Director of the Techo Sen Kompot Regional Polytechnic Institute, reported on the institute's progress, emphasizing its crucial role in coordinating, managing, and providing TVET services according to labor market demands. The institute is committed to increasing student enrollment across all study levels and strengthening the quality and efficiency of training to meet market needs and technological advancements. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Local