Cambodia, 1001fontaines Extend Partnership to Expand Clean Water Access and Hygiene Education in Schools

PHNOM PENH, June 8, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport and Teuk Saat 1001 (1001fontaines) have renewed their partnership for another five years to expand clean water access and strengthen hygiene education in schools, particularly in rural areas, officials said Monday.

Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Hang Chuon Naron met with Meas Depuis Anne Sarinn, chairwoman of the board of 1001fontaines, and her delegation to discuss ongoing cooperation.

During the meeting, the NGO expressed appreciation for the ministry’s support and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting health education through safe drinking water. The group has worked closely with the ministry to improve water supply and sanitation in schools, especially in underserved communities.

Following a presentation on achievements in 2025–2026 and plans for 2027–2028, Hang Chuon Naron congratulated 1001fontaines on its 21 years of operations in Cambodia and praised its contributions to student health and well-being.

He stressed the importance of clean water for consumption and hygiene, noting that improved access reduces healthcare costs for families and creates a better learning environment.

The Deputy Prime Minister voiced support for renewing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which will continue to advance three areas of cooperation: the Water for Schools project, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) education, and support for Cambodia’s national action plan on water supply and sanitation.

The partnership has helped reduce student absenteeism and improve child welfare through clean drinking water and hygiene education in schools across multiple provinces.