Phnom Penh: Some 113,000 young people have enrolled in Cambodia’s vocational and technical training programme since its introduction in late 2023, with 63 percent having already graduated. Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet shared the figures during a gathering with over 5,000 leaders from informal economy unions and academic staff associations. The event was held at the Chroy Changvar International Convention and Exhibition Centre in Phnom Penh to mark the 139th Anniversary of International Labour Day.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the Royal Government of Cambodia launched the vocational and technical training programme to provide free training for 1.5 million young people from poor and vulnerable families. Participants receive a monthly stipend of 280,000 Riel (approximately US$70) to support their education. The initiative aims to equip Cambodian youth with professional and life skills to enhance their employment opportunities.
As of April 25, 2025, 113,000 young people had enrolled, with 72,000 having graduated and about 16,000 securing proper employment after graduation, as noted by the Premier. On the same occasion, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet urged capital and provincial authorities, as well as union representatives, to help publicize the programme among young citizens to encourage broader participation.
The Prime Minister also appealed to the private sector to accept trainees and interns into the workplace. This integration is intended to allow young people to apply theoretical knowledge in practice, gaining valuable work experience in the process. Officially launched in November 2023, the programme is executed through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, with the goal of strengthening human resources and boosting economic growth.