Cambodia Accelerates TVET Modernization with AI, Automation

PHNOM PENH, June 17, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia is accelerating reforms to modernize its technical and vocational education and training (TVET) system by integrating artificial intelligence, automation and digital technologies, as the government seeks to build a workforce capable of driving long‑term economic transformation, officials said Tuesday.

Labour Minister Heng Sour reaffirmed the commitment at the closing of the 9th National TVET Day, held under the theme “TVET Provides Skills, Jobs and Income.” He stressed that vocational training should be viewed as a valuable route to employment and entrepreneurship, not a second‑class option.

“TVET is not a second‑class education,” he said, echoing Prime Minister Hun Manet’s vision that training must equip learners with practical skills demanded by domestic and international markets.

Sour urged institutions to modernize curricula with digital tools and industry‑ready skills, while expanding free training and Recognition of Prior Learning assessments for returning migrant workers. He also called on businesses to deepen partnerships through internships and apprenticeships.

The event drew more than 1,000 participants from government, development partners and the private sector, including ADB, World Bank, ILO and KOICA. Nearly 100,000 people joined nationwide, with highlights including advanced robots built by Cambodian students.

ILO Country Director Xiaoyan Qian described TVET as a “strategic national asset,” praising reforms and urging stronger collaboration with industry. Officials said Cambodia now counts 47,000 registered enterprises employing 2.3 million workers, with more than 271,000 learners enrolled in tuition‑free training and nearly 700,000 trained over five years.