UNFPA Hails Cambodia as Regional Model for Integrating Health and Sexuality Education

PHNOM PENH, July 22, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has emerged as a regional model for integrating comprehensive health and sexuality education into its national school curriculum, a reform helping improve adolescent health and preparing a more productive generation to support long‑term development, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) said Wednesday.

The recognition came during a meeting between UNFPA Representative Sandra Bernklau and Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Hang Chuon Naron, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation on youth health, education and human capital development.

Bernklau said Cambodia’s successful integration of comprehensive sexuality education has positioned the country as an example of how education can improve adolescent well‑being. She stressed that investing in young people’s health is among the most important steps for building a skilled workforce capable of driving Cambodia’s demographic and economic transformation.

Under its 2026–2029 Strategic Plan, UNFPA will continue working with the ministry and partners to boost investment in school health, early childhood education, youth leadership and skills development, while addressing social challenges and maximizing Cambodia’s demographic dividend.

Naron highlighted government efforts to tackle child marriage, teenage pregnancy and school dropout through Health Promoting School Standards and School Health Room Standards. He also pointed to initiatives empowering youth, including Volunteer for My Community, the National Youth Debate Program and Youth Councils.

The Deputy Prime Minister thanked UNFPA for facilitating Asian Development Bank financing to support school health initiatives and reaffirmed Cambodia’s backing for the UN80 reform initiative, saying continued investment in youth potential would strengthen human capital and underpin inclusive growth.