On the island of Koh Rong, nestled off the coast of Preah Sihanouk, the day starts with the rising tide. As sunlight glimmers on the sea, small feet tread sandy paths, and the laughter of children drifts through the coconut trees, heading towards two local preschools: Preak Svay 1 and Preak Svay 2.
For these young islanders, school is not just a place to learn — it’s where they receive a nutritious morning meal.
Through the CO-SAVED project, co-funded by the European Union, Action Education / Aide et Action is conducting a school feeding programme supporting coastal and island communities. In remote areas of Cambodia, such as Koh Rong Island, where early education is often out of reach, this initiative provides children aged 3 to 5 with the nutrition they need to grow, focus, and thrive.
Nurturing Hope on the Islands: Why School Feeding Matters
In Cambodia’s island and coastal areas, families often depend on fishing, small-scale farming, or day labour to sustain their livelihoods. In such settings, sending young children to preschool can seem like a luxury.
Yet early education is essential — it sets the foundation for lifelong learning, social resilience, and better opportunities later in life. That’s why our initiative provides one nutritious meal per school day to these island children who might otherwise start their day hungry.
This initiative eases the burden on their parents, and their teachers, Li Ler and Ngin Saren, can see a difference — children are more alert, more consistent in their attendance, and ready to participate, grow, and connect.
Tides of Change: Building Brighter Futures Together
This initiative is about more than filling stomachs. It’s about dignity, equity, and opportunity for some of Cambodia’s most isolated communities. On an island, every resource is cherished. Even small, simple actions — like a bowl of rice — can have a lasting impact when paired with love and education.
A brighter future is taking root.
Every child deserves to start their day with a healthy meal, a hopeful heart, and the chance to learn.
