Bokor City, Kampot Province — June 1, 2025
Laughter, cheers, and the excited chatter of children filled the air as Reasmey Khemerak Primary School became the first school in Kampot to plant its very own Miyawaki Forest — a vibrant beginning to a greener, more climate-resilient future. What started as a simple idea to bring nature back into schools has blossomed into a movement of hope, energy, and community spirit.
The planting event, part of the visionary “Greenspots: Climate-Resilient Schools” initiative, was a breathtaking display of unity and purpose. Co-organized by NEP and Teacher Development Support Organization (TDSO), in collaboration with Samaky Organization, Education For Rural Community Organization (ERCO), Buddhist Library Cambodia Project (BLCP), MJC Organization, and the Kampot Provincial Department of Environment, the event drew an impressive crowd of 311 participants — 190 enthusiastic students, 17 dedicated teachers, and 104 proud parents and guardians — all rolling up their sleeves to get their hands in the soil.
Together, they planted a staggering 700 trees, representing 18 different plant species selected to foster biodiversity, provide shade, cool the air, and enrich the soil. The school, once just a place of textbooks and blackboards, now hums with the early whispers of leaves rustling in the breeze and the promise of a thriving, green haven.
The energy on the day was electric. Children smiled as they named their trees, teachers guided tiny hands to plant with care, and parents looked on with pride — some even kneeling beside their children to dig and water together. The air was filled not only with the earthy scent of fresh soil but also with a powerful sense of community, pride, and purpose.
More than just a forest, this Miyawaki plot is a living classroom, a natural lab, and a sanctuary that will teach generations of students about resilience, science, and environmental stewardship. It stands as a powerful symbol of what’s possible when a community comes together — not just to dream, but to act, to nurture, and to grow.
The Greenspots initiative is grounded in the belief that climate-resilient education is essential. By transforming school grounds into vibrant green spaces, we’re investing in children’s health, well-being, and learning — ensuring that no matter how the climate shifts, their right to a safe and supportive learning environment is protected.
As the very first school in the region to implement the Greenspots model, Reasmey Khemerak Primary is lighting the path for others to follow. Its success is a clear and hopeful signal: when we plant together, we grow together — greener, stronger, and more united than ever.
And the journey doesn’t stop here! If you feel inspired and want to be part of this growing movement, you’re warmly invited to join us at our next Greenspots school event in Kampong Thom Province. Whether you’re a student, teacher, parent, or passionate supporter of the environment — your hands, your heart, and your hope can help us make the next school bloom too.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all partners and community members who helped make this momentous day possible. With every tree planted, we’re shaping a brighter future for our children — one seedling at a time.
