Preah Vihear Province, Cambodia – March 26, 2026: Action Education, in partnership with the Education Above All Foundation’s Educate A Child program, World Vision International in Cambodia, the European Union, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, and provincial authorities, has successfully inaugurated five new school buildings across Kulen, Choam Ksant, and Rovieng districts. These new facilities, including 21 classrooms, are expected to serve over 500 children annually, including those affected by the recent border conflict and displacement.
This milestone represents the 30th school building constructed under the Cambodia Consortium for Out of School Children (CCOSC) project, reinforcing Action Education’s commitment to reaching the most vulnerable children and promoting inclusive, quality education across Cambodia.
Education Where It’s Needed Most
In communities affected by remoteness and recent border instability, education is often one of the first services to be disrupted—and one of the hardest to restore. These new schools stand as a direct response to that challenge, ensuring that children can return to safe, structured, and supportive learning environments.
This initiative is the result of a strong collaboration between Action Education, World Vision International in Cambodia, and the Education Above All Foundation’s Educate A Child program, in partnership with the European Union, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, and provincial authorities. Together, they share a common vision: to ensure inclusive, equitable, and quality education for every child—especially those most at risk.
More Than Classrooms: Safe Spaces for Growth
Each of the new school buildings has been thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of children in challenging contexts. Equipped with solar power systems and improved sanitation facilities, these schools provide safe, child-friendly, and resilient environments where students can learn with dignity.
For children who have experienced displacement or instability, these spaces offer more than education—they provide a sense of normalcy, protection, and hope.
As Janes Immanuel Ginting, National Director of World Vision International in Cambodia, shared during the inauguration:
“These school buildings… are a lifeline for children. Together with our partners, we are ensuring that every child has a safe place to learn, recover, and build a better future.”
Advancing Action Education’s Mission
At the heart of this initiative lies the mission of Action Education: to ensure that everyone has access to quality education throughout life, regardless of their circumstances.
By focusing on remote and underserved communities, Action Education is addressing the root causes of educational exclusion—poverty, geography, and crisis. These new schools are not just physical infrastructure; they are part of a broader commitment to:
- Promote inclusive education for all children, including the most vulnerable
- Ensure continuity of learning, even in times of crisis
- Strengthen community engagement in education
- Build resilience through education systems
Vorn Samphors, Country Director of Action Education International in Cambodia, underscored the importance of this milestone:
“These five new school buildings represent more than just infrastructure—they mark the 30th school constructed under the Cambodia Consortium for Out of School Children. Each school reflects our shared commitment to reaching the most vulnerable children and ensuring that no child is left behind. Together with our partners, we are building not only classrooms, but opportunities for lifelong learning and sustainable development.”
A Collective Effort for Lasting Impact
The inauguration ceremony brought together national and provincial leaders, including Kim Rithy, development partners, educators, and community members—demonstrating the shared commitment to education as a driver of recovery and long-term development.
This initiative is part of the broader Cambodia Consortium for Out of School Children, which works to improve access to education, strengthen teaching capacity, and empower communities across the country. With this latest achievement, a total of 30 school buildings (722 classrooms) have now been constructed across Cambodia under the project, expanding access to safe and inclusive learning environments for thousands of children.
Importantly, it also aligns with Cambodia’s national priorities, including the Pentagonal Strategy – Phase 1 and the Education Strategic Plan—ensuring that local actions contribute to systemic, sustainable change.
Building Foundations for the Future
Education is a transformative force. By creating safe, accessible, and inclusive learning spaces in Preah Vihear, Action Education and its partners are laying the foundation for lifelong learning and supporting children to thrive despite adversity.
The CCOSC project continues to expand access to education for out-of-school children, strengthen teacher capacity, and mobilize communities—ensuring that no child is left behind.
These five schools are more than bricks and mortar; they are a beacon of hope, opportunity, and resilience for children and families across Preah Vihear Province.
And for Action Education and its partners, this is just the beginning.
