Cambodia Launches Jarai Language in Schools Under Multilingual Education Programme

PHNOM PENH, Jan 23, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia will introduce the Jarai language into its Multilingual Education Programme on January 27 in Ratanakiri province, the Ministry of Education announced.

The launch will be chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Hang Chuon Naron. Cambodia has implemented multilingual education since 2003, providing bilingual instruction for Indigenous children through both formal and non-formal programmes.

The initiative is backed by the Royal Government and supported by partners including UNICEF, the European Union and local NGOs.

It currently serves about 7,500 Indigenous children from preschool to Grade 3 and employs around 400 Indigenous teachers across Ratanakiri, Stung Treng, Kratie, Mondulkiri and Preah Vihear provinces.

To support implementation, the ministry has developed writing systems for Indigenous languages such as Tampuan, Kreung–Prou, Kavet, Phnong and Jarai, all based on the Khmer script.

These efforts are guided by the Multilingual Education Action Plan 2024–2028, with tailored curricula and materials reflecting Indigenous cultures.

Jarai textbooks and learning materials have already been piloted in seven primary schools in Ou Ya Dav and Andoung Meas districts. The ministry said the programme improves access to education