In rural Cambodia, remedial education is unlocking the potential of children who might otherwise be left behind. Action Education / Aide et Action supports children at risk of dropping out to stay in school and succeed.
At just nine years old, Rin Theara, a Grade 3 pupil at Damnak Chang Eur Primary School in Kep, already knows what she wants to become: a teacher.
“In the future, I want to become a teacher because I want to help students as well,” she says with hope. Like many children growing up in rural Cambodia, Theara’s educational journey hasn’t been easy.
“In my family, I’m the oldest sister. I have two other sisters. My house is near my school,” she shares. Her parents work hard—her mother in a guesthouse, her father tending cows—but limited resources and opportunities have made it difficult to support her learning.
Today, Theara is no longer falling behind.
Thanks to remedial classes, she’s not just catching up—she’s thriving.“I enjoy writing and listening to my teacher,” she smiles.
The Heart of the Classroom: The Teacher Helping Learners Shine
Behind every child who breaks through barriers is a teacher who refuses to give up—and for Theara, that person is Khut Vuoch Horng.
With 16 years of experience, and two years specialising in remedial support, she is dedicating herself to the children who need it most, driven by a passion to give every child a fair chance. “In remedial class, I support slow learners,” Khut Vuoch Horng explains. “It’s more difficult to teach these children, but I continue because my wish is to see all students in my class learn faster.”
She teaches reading, writing, and mathematics—but her impact goes far beyond academics. Through paper crafts, life skills, and compassionate guidance, she creates a space where children feel safe, valued, and inspired.
“Despite many challenges, I continue because I want to help my students improve their reading, succeed in school, and one day help improve our country.”
She’s already seeing the difference in Theara.
“She’s improved her writing. She acquires more and more knowledge. She pays more attention in class.”
Catching Up, Moving Ahead: From Learner to Leader
Theara’s story is a powerful example of what’s possible when education becomes truly inclusive. With the right support, she is reclaiming not just her place in the classroom—but her dreams for the future.
Her confidence is growing.
Her skills are strengthening.
Her ambition is taking shape.
Theara isn’t only thinking about herself. She’s already looking ahead to how she can give back. Her dream? To become a teacher and help other children.
This is what happens when we invest in education—not just for today, but for generations to come. Together, let’s empower more children like Theara to reclaim their right to learn—and to dream.
It all starts with education.
