Cambodia, UNFPA deepen partnership to invest in youth health and human capital

PHNOM PENH, July 21, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation on youth health, education and human capital development, with a focus on maximizing the country’s demographic dividend through greater investment in young people.

Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Hang Chuon Naron met UNFPA Representative Sandra Bernklau to highlight the pledge. Bernklau said investing in the health and well‑being of youth is essential to building a productive workforce capable of supporting Cambodia’s long‑term socio‑economic growth.

She reaffirmed UNFPA’s commitment under its 2026–2029 Strategic Plan to expand investment in student health, early childhood education, youth leadership, skills development and prevention of social challenges.

Naron thanked UNFPA for longstanding support and pointed to reforms over the past decade, including higher teacher salaries, curriculum improvements, expanded school infrastructure and Cambodia’s participation in the Programme for International Student Assessment.

He outlined efforts to tackle child marriage, teenage pregnancy and school dropout through Health Promoting School Standards, while encouraging youth participation via volunteer programs, debate competitions and youth councils.

He also praised UNFPA for facilitating financing with the Asian Development Bank to support school health education and evaluate Comprehensive Sexuality Education. Both sides agreed that continued investment in youth potential, school health and early childhood education will strengthen Cambodia’s human capital and underpin sustainable, inclusive development.