The Situation

Cambodia’s growing population continues to strain education, healthcare and employment systems. Despite strong GDP growth post-pandemic, poverty remains above pre-COVID levels. Urban slums and rural areas face persistent challenges such as insecure housing, limited clean water and sanitation, unemployment and inadequate educational opportunities. School dropout rates are high, with around 55% leaving before age 17, reducing future employment prospects. Generational poverty and limited skills development hinder youth from securing stable livelihoods and supporting their families, highlighting the urgent need for targeted education and social support programs.

The Objectives

Bethel Mission’s Education for Unprivileged Children Project (EUCP) fosters long-term development and sustainability for families in graveyards, slums, prisons, and urban and rural communities. Key objectives include:

• Education Program: Teaching Khmer, English, IT Literacy, Soft-Life Skills and Business Courses to boost what students are learning at the government schools, ensuring inclusive, equitable access to primary, secondary, technical, vocational and tertiary education.
• Resiliency of Spirit Program: Teaching the value of morals, love and forgiveness to transform lives by supporting physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.

By providing quality education, practical skills and essential support, the project is breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering young people to build sustainable livelihoods and strengthen their communities.