Indigenous Tampoun students in northeastern Cambodia encounter
educational obstacles because of the language barrier, as Khmer differs
from their native language. This hinders their comprehension, engagement, and
academic progress. Scarce resources in their language further add complexity to
their learning environment. Moreover, many Tampoun families confront economic
limitations stemming from subsistence farming, which hampers their children’s
education. The high expenses often prompt students to quit early and engage in
agricultural work, restricting their academic and personal development
opportunities.
The Cambodian Consortium for Out of School Children (CCOSC), headed by Action Education in collaboration with Education Above All’s Educate A Child program, granted a scholarship for bicycles and study materials to support ethnic minority children. This initiative aims to address the barriers these children face in accessing education, particularly in remote areas where transportation is a significant hurdle. By providing bicycles, the program not only enhances mobility but also encourages school attendance, thereby fostering a more inclusive educational environment.
Meet Chantouk PHUONG, a 12-year-old student from the Tampon indigenous community, who resides in Kachoun Krom village with her elderly parents and older sister. Being the youngest of seven siblings, most of whom are married with families of their own, her family’s primary income comes from farming. However, they face financial constraints. Chantouk encounters difficulties attending school due to the distant and arduous journey, as well as the expenses related to school attire and supplies.
“During the rainy season, going to school becomes more challenging. I either walk or depend on friends or my sister for a ride. Yet, the Khmer language poses difficulties because of my Tampoun heritage. Reading, spelling, and understanding are tough, but I am committed to getting better. Chantouk expressed his determination to overcome these challenges and continue his education.”
In August 2023, Chantouk was presented with an incredible opportunity by being awarded a scholarship from the Cambodian Consortium for Out of School Children (CCOSC) through the Ockenden Cambodia organization, a local partner of CCOSC in Ratanakiri province. This scholarship included a new bicycle and study materials such as a bag, textbook, stationery, and clothes. These resources are crucial for making her commute to school much easier and creating a conducive learning atmosphere, enabling Chantouk to fully engage with her studies without the added stress of financial constraints.
After school, Chantouk assists her parents and sister with chores, farming, and taking care of their animals. Juggling these duties alongside her schoolwork can be challenging. Chantouk is currently in the 4th grade at Kachoun Krom Primary School, where her teacher is exceptionally supportive and compassionate towards their student’s family circumstances. This understanding approach translates into kind treatment, interaction with students, and providing assistance with difficult subjects.
“Our school is a safe and comfortable environment—a concrete building equipped with toilets, wells, gardens, and playgrounds. I have a special request for the principal: I hope they can enhance the library by adding more storybooks. This would greatly encourage children like me to explore the world of reading,” Chantouk shared.
Numerous children in villages encounter common obstacles such as poverty, scarcity of food, inadequate study materials, and transportation issues. Consequently, some children are compelled to discontinue their education or attend irregularly to assist their families with farming. Regrettably, older children may feel embarrassed to resume their studies. Teachers also encounter challenges, especially during the rainy season when heavy rains make it difficult for them to reach the school, leading to disruptions in the teaching timetable.
Nhong PHONG, Chantouk’s father, has witnessed firsthand the positive impact of CCOSC on his daughter’s education. He is dedicated to securing Chantouk’s future by working hard and saving money from pig farming to support his daughter’s education up to the 12th grade.
Mr. Nhong enthusiastically expressed, “My goal is for my daughter to become a primary school teacher in our village. I believe she can make a difference by providing quality education to other ethnic minority children. I also envision her securing a stable teaching position to support our family financially in the future. A brighter future lies ahead with improved agriculture and increased income. I appreciate the Cambodian Consortium for Out-of-School Children for the positive influence on my family, my daughter, and our entire community.”
The impact of this support extends beyond the individual recipients. It strengthens communities by promoting higher literacy rates and educational attainment among ethnic minority groups. As these children gain knowledge and skills, they are better equipped to contribute positively to their communities and break the cycle of poverty.
Chantouk expressed, “I favor mathematics as it is logical and enjoyable. My dream is to become a primary school teacher and share my knowledge with the next generation, particularly the children in my village.”
Parents and local leaders have expressed gratitude for the program, noting the positive changes they have observed in the children’s enthusiasm for learning and overall academic performance. The Cambodian Consortium for Out of School Children continues to work tirelessly to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to pursue education and build a brighter future.
