The low learning outcomes in Cambodia’s education sector stem from a complex interplay of
factors across schools, teachers, students, and communities. School factors include overcrowded
classrooms, low parental engagement, poor leadership and management of the school,
limited functioning of school management committee members, student-teacher ratios
significantly higher than regional averages (45-60 students per class), and a lack of essential
resources and infrastructure. Teacher quality is compromised by low qualification, with 13% of
regional teacher training center staff lacking bachelor’s degrees. Teachers face limited and
inadequate access to professional development, and nearly half of secondary educators lack
subject-specific training. Digital competency gaps, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, hinder
effective online learning. In addition, limited parental engagement, financial constraints, and
socio-cultural barriers, including poverty and traditional gender norms, further limit student
engagement and progression and further impede student progress. Student well-being, including
learning disabilities and emotional issues, also plays a crucial role. Low enrollment and quality in
Early Childhood Education (ECE) negatively impact primary school readiness, contributing to
overall low learning outcomes.
To address these challenges, the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports (MoEYS)
recommended to prioritize to increase education budget allocation, targeting 4% of GDP to
improve infrastructure, teacher training, and equity-focused initiatives. Establishing robust
monitoring and evaluation systems will enhance accountability and policy impact. Additionally,
expanding early childhood education and fostering collaboration among government, NGOs, and
donors are essential for sustainable improvements. Strategic investments and partnerships can
create an equitable, high-quality education system, ensuring all Cambodian children have the
opportunity to succeed.
This brief outline actionable solutions to address these systemic issues and achieve long-term
educational reform.
