Cambodia Pushes Sports Development and Youth Participation to Strengthen Human Capital

PHNOM PENH, June 3, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has called for stronger investment in sports development and greater youth participation in physical activities as part of its broader strategy to strengthen human capital and national competitiveness.

At a ceremony inaugurating a new three‑storey building and awarding diplomas to physical education and sports teachers at the National Institute of Physical Education and Sports, Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet outlined policy directions aimed at modernizing the sector and expanding public participation.

Central to the plan is the “One Youth, One Sport for Life” campaign, which encourages citizens — particularly young people — to actively engage in at least one sport throughout their lives.

The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport was instructed to coordinate with other ministries, local authorities, development partners and the private sector to strengthen physical education programs, expand sports activities nationwide and raise public awareness of healthy lifestyles. Transparency in athlete selection, improved training systems and greater investment in infrastructure, scientific research and medical support were also emphasized.

Sports development, the premier said, is not only about recreation but about building stronger human capital. “To become a true human capital, citizens must possess knowledge, skills, experience, and good health, which cannot be separated from physical education and sports,” he noted.

Preparations are under way for Cambodia to host major regional events, including the 23rd ASEAN University Games in 2028 and the 5th Asian Youth Games in 2031. The government has urged ministries and stakeholders to ensure successful hosting while boosting competitiveness in regional contests.

Further priorities include expanding disability sports, creating opportunities for persons with disabilities in leadership roles, and strengthening private sector participation to grow Cambodia’s sports industry into an economic sector capable of generating jobs and income.