The NGO Education Partnership (NEP), with funded support from DVV International, is proud to lead the development of a position paper on lifelong learning (LLL). This initiative aims to provide high-level narratives derived from interviews with key stakeholders, contributing to a deeper understanding of the progress, challenges, and opportunities within Cambodia’s lifelong learning landscape.
The study reveals that stakeholders have primarily focused their implementation efforts on two key strategies outlined in the National Policy on LLL: Providing Lifelong Learning Services to All People (#2) and Developing Learning Centers, Physical Infrastructure, and Appropriate Learning Venues (#4). Additionally, approximately half of the stakeholders have emphasized Developing Comprehensive and Flexible Lifelong Learning Programs to Meet Learning Demands (#3) and Providing Capacity Building for LLL Program Facilitators to Become Professionals (#5). However, efforts across other strategies remain limited.
NEP’s collaboration with DVV International highlights the diverse roles of stakeholders in promoting lifelong learning. For instance, the Non-Formal Education (NFE) Department integrates LLL policies into existing systems, enhancing accessibility in garment factories and Community Learning Centers (CLCs). DVV International works closely with the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport (MoEYS) to support LLL Centers, focusing on capacity building and sustainable initiatives.
Despite progress, stakeholders face shared challenges in implementing the LLL policy. These include legislative gaps, resource and budget constraints, insufficient dissemination of information, staff shortages, a lack of a national action plan, unclear implementation guidance, inadequate monitoring, and the delegation of administrative responsibilities to District Administrations.
The development of the National LLL Action Plan is a key focus of NEP’s position paper. Proposed steps include engaging a prominent minister, such as from MoEYS, the Ministry of Interior, or the Ministry of National Defence, to lead the process; facilitating consultations with 30 relevant ministries and stakeholders; and establishing a robust office for the LLL Secretariat.
Through this initiative, NEP, with DVV International’s support, aims to strengthen Cambodia’s lifelong learning system, ensuring accessibility, equity, and sustainability for learners across the nation.