In the heart of Kampot, Cambodia, hope takes the form of backpacks, notebooks, and clean water. A recent distribution of school supplies by Action Education / Aide et Action (AEA) in partnership with Education Above All’s Educate A Child program brought smiles and opportunities to hundreds of children and their families.
This distribution was more than a donation – it was a commitment to justice, ensuring that every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. It’s about breaking down barriers, unlocking potential, and nurturing dreams. Together, we are leveling the playing field and making education accessible for all.
For 12-year-old Chan Reaksmey, a student at Kampong Trach Primary School, these supplies will help her study. “They complement the materials my family bought so I can go to school. With education, it will be easier to get a job in the future.” For every child, education is a step toward realizing their dreams.
Education is a lifeline for children like 9-year-old Sieng Savith. “I’m very happy with the school bag I received. I can carry all my school materials to school.” He beams with pride as he talks about his love for Khmer reading: “Through reading, I can learn other subjects. My dream is to become a translator.”
When children have access to the tools, resources, and support they need, they can dream bigger, achieve more, and build a brighter future.
Breaking Barriers: Education in Action
For Chan and her peers, having the right learning tools keeps them motivated, engaged, and on the path to success. Simple items like notebooks and school bags can make the difference between dropping out and staying in school. Khatty Ekvisoth, AEA Programme Manager for Multilingual and Inclusive Education, explained the scope of these efforts: “Over the past two days, AEA has distributed 733 school kits across Kampong Trach and Toeuk Chhou districts, bringing essential materials to eager young learners.”
The impact goes beyond providing supplies. It’s a step toward addressing systemic barriers to education, whether rooted in poverty, geographical isolation, or lack of resources. This initiative isn’t just about delivering supplies – it’s about delivering hope. It’s about recognizing the vital role education plays in transforming lives and communities.
Healthy Schools, Thriving Students
Katthy Ekvisoth also shared that 100 handwashing stations and six water filters were distributed across 50 schools in the two districts. Education thrives when health is prioritized. These facilities ensure that students have access to clean water and proper sanitation, allowing them to attend school regularly and stay focused on their education.
Many schools in rural Cambodia struggle with limited access to clean water and sanitation, leaving students vulnerable to illness, absenteeism, and even dropping out. Students now have additional resources to stay healthy and continue their studies. They know the value of water. “It’s for hygiene,” says Chan Reaksmey. “Washing our hands keeps us healthy.” For Sieng Savith, “water is important for drinking and washing. We also need to wash and drink at school.”
Together for Education
Parents, too, recognize the significance of these efforts. For those facing financial hardships, material support helps ease the burden. As Uch Din, Sieng’s mother, poignantly shares: “Education is what I will leave as an inheritance because I cannot leave property or wealth. I am a garment worker. Education is the most important gift I can give my son.”
This belief is echoed by Pok Srosh, a mother of three, who is immensely proud of her six-year-old son, Pok Chamman. “He’s the first in his class. I want my children to study and become good people.” With a shy but confident smile, the boy shares his dream: “To become a policeman, I need education and good morals. I already like vegetables. Going to school will help me reach my goal.”
Every backpack, every notebook, every drop of clean water is a step toward equality and education for all.
