The NGO Education Partnership (NEP) is celebrating International Education Day 2025 with a renewed commitment to advocating for inclusive access to quality education for all Cambodians. As the only education coalition organization in Cambodia, NEP has been at the forefront of fostering collaboration and driving sustainable change in the education sector since its establishment in 2001. This year’s celebration highlights NEP’s key achievements and ongoing efforts to ensure that education remains a fundamental right, accessible to everyone regardless of their circumstances.
NEP’s contributions to Cambodia’s education sector are rooted in its core mission of uniting diverse stakeholders, influencing policy, and creating platforms for meaningful dialogue. By coordinating a network of over 70 member organizations, NEP ensures that marginalized groups, such as ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and rural communities, have a voice in shaping education policies. This collective effort has been instrumental in advancing equal access to quality education across the country.

One of NEP’s significant achievements is its ability to influence policy through evidence-based advocacy. In 2024, NEP developed two comprehensive policy briefs on gender responsiveness and education quality, informed by extensive stakeholder consultations. Additionally, NEP produced a spotlight report examining the intersection of gender and climate change in education. These documents have been vital tools in engaging policymakers and pushing for reforms that address critical issues such as inclusivity, equity, and decentralization in education.
NEP also prioritizes creating opportunities for dialogue among stakeholders. Its biannual National Conferences serve as a platform for government officials, civil society organizations, development partners, youth representatives, and other actors to exchange effective practices and discuss education reforms. Since 2022, NEP has organized five conferences, each bringing together up to 200 participants from diverse sectors. These events have facilitated the sharing of ideas, fostering a shared understanding of policy challenges and identifying actionable solutions. Reports from these conferences are disseminated to key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education and the National Assembly, ensuring that the discussions translate into tangible outcomes.

The Education Champion Leader meetings represent another cornerstone of NEP’s work. In 2024 alone, NEP convened four such meetings, with an average of 50 organizations participating in each. These gatherings provide a space for chairs, vice-chairs, and members of Provincial Education Sector Working Groups (P-ESWGs) and Thematic Working Groups to discuss pressing issues and strategize on improving education systems. Topics such as educational equity, gender responsiveness, and financing education have been central to these discussions, underscoring NEP’s commitment to addressing systemic challenges through collaboration and knowledge sharing.

NEP’s innovative use of media to engage the public has further strengthened its advocacy efforts. The monthly EduNetTalk program has become a popular online platform for discussing priority education issues. Featuring panelists from government, civil society, and development partners, these sessions have covered topics such as inclusive education, school governance, and teacher support. With 52 programs conducted to date, EduNetTalk has reached a growing audience, raising awareness and encouraging dialogue on critical education challenges.
NEP’s commitment to inclusivity extends to its campaigns and initiatives aimed at breaking down barriers to education. A recent campaign underscored the message that disability does not limit educational opportunities, emphasizing the importance of creating an inclusive environment where all students can thrive. By championing the rights of marginalized groups, NEP continues to lead efforts to ensure that no one is left behind in Cambodia’s education system.

Reflecting on NEP’s achievements and the road ahead, Mr. Khieu Chetra, Executive Director, emphasized the crucial role of member organizations in driving change. “Our members’ involvement and contributions are the backbone of NEP’s success. Together, we have built a platform that amplifies the voices of those who are often unheard and ensures their concerns are addressed in education policies. NEP remains steadfast in its commitment to strengthening this platform and fostering collaboration among all stakeholders to achieve our shared vision of inclusive and equitable education for all.”
As NEP celebrates International Education Day 2025, it renews its dedication to its mission and values. By prioritizing sustainable policy influence, collaborative platforms, and capacity building, NEP not only drives change in Cambodia but also offers a replicable model for promoting inclusivity and equity in education systems worldwide. Through its unwavering efforts, NEP continues to be a hope for those striving for a brighter and more inclusive future.
