Cambodia, EU Deepen Cooperation to Drive Technical Education Reform

PHNOM PENH, June 15, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia and the European Union are moving to extend their partnership on education reform through a proposed expansion of the EU‑Cambodia Partnership for Educational Transformation (EU CAPET), aimed at strengthening technical and vocational training, expanding STEM learning and building a more skilled workforce, officials said Monday.

Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Hang Chuon Naron met EU Ambassador Igor Driesmans and senior officials to review progress under the current EU CAPET 2024–2027 program and discuss additional support for 2028–2030. Both sides hailed achievements to date and voiced strong backing for continued cooperation to advance Cambodia’s human capital agenda.

The next phase would focus on promoting science, technology, engineering and mathematics education, expanding teacher training, enhancing school‑based coaching and mentoring, and increasing scholarships. Naron praised the EU’s technical and financial assistance, saying the program has delivered tangible results in linking education with industry and expanding access through scholarships.

He described EU CAPET as a catalyst for shifting Cambodia’s technical education from theory‑based learning to practical skills and workforce readiness. “The program has played an important role in developing highly skilled human resources and improving productivity, contributing to Cambodia’s Vision 2030 and Vision 2050 goals,” he said.

Funded by an EU grant, the current program equips youth and adults with skills to meet labor market demands.

Its objectives include expanding gender‑equitable access, modernizing curricula with green skills and digitalization, strengthening teacher training, and boosting female participation in STEM. The planned extension reflects a shared commitment to modernize the education system and prepare future generations for a technology‑driven economy.