The Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport (MoEYS) of Cambodia has launched an ambitious Strategic Plan for Teacher Education Reform (2024-2030) to enhance the quality and supply of teachers in the country. This initiative aligns with Cambodia’s Pentagonal Strategy – Phase I and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, aiming to ensure inclusive, quality education and lifelong learning for all. The plan focuses on transforming teacher education to build a competent workforce, driving Cambodia toward upper-middle-income status by 2030.
Key Areas of Reform
1. Raising Teacher Qualifications and Career Development
To improve learning outcomes, all teachers from primary to upper secondary levels will be required to hold at least a Bachelor-level qualification. The current 12+2 teacher education model will transition to 12+4 (Bachelor’s Degree) or BA+1 (Postgraduate Certificate in Education), ensuring that new teachers meet national professional standards. Additionally, teachers will have access to continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities linked to career progression.
2. Expanding the Teacher Workforce
The reform guarantees an adequate supply of qualified teachers across Cambodia, addressing regional disparities and ensuring equitable deployment. This involves recruiting more student teachers through scholarships and self-funded pathways while strengthening mechanisms to attract high-caliber candidates into the profession.
3. Strengthening Institutional Capacity
To support teacher education, Cambodia will upgrade and expand Teacher Education Institutions (TEIs), including converting selected Provincial Teacher Training Centers (PTTCs) into accredited CPD providers. Additionally, the establishment of Teacher Education Colleges (TECs) with higher education status will enhance the quality of teacher training and provide a solid research foundation for pedagogical improvements.
4. Addressing Learning Gaps and Specializations
In response to Cambodia’s learning crisis, where nearly 49% of Grade 6 students struggle with reading and 73% lack basic math skills, the strategic plan introduces targeted reforms. Specialized teacher training will be expanded through Centers of Excellence (CoEs), focusing on inclusive education, digital learning, and subject-specific expertise. These centers will foster research, knowledge-sharing, and best teaching practices across the country.
The Urgency for Reform
Cambodia faces significant challenges in education, including low student proficiency rates, teacher shortages, and outdated training programs. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated learning losses, highlighting the need for urgent intervention. The Strategic Plan for Teacher Education Reform seeks to professionalize the teaching workforce, ensuring that teachers are well-equipped to support student success and contribute to national development.
Through these transformative initiatives, Cambodia is taking bold steps to build a modern, high-quality education system that empowers students, strengthens the economy, and prepares the country for a brighter future.
