The School-Level STEM Education Framework (2025) aims to strengthen students’ and educators’ abilities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) across Cambodia. It supports the improvement of teaching quality, school management, infrastructure, and community involvement in STEM education. The framework has five key components student learning outcomes, teaching & learning, school governance, infrastructure, and community engagement and is organized into five developmental levels to help schools self-assess and plan for improvement.
Purpose and Importance of STEM
STEM education is essential for national development, innovation, technology advancement, and preparing a competent workforce. Cambodia promotes STEM to help young people compete globally, aligning with the STEM Education Policy (2016).
The Ministry of Education developed this framework through the STEP UP project, supporting the government’s long-term vision and aligning with the country’s strategic education and development policies.
What the Framework Provides
The framework will:
• Be adapted to Cambodia’s context and needs.
• Guide schools in effective implementation of STEM.
• Set realistic goals and practices for school leaders, teachers, students, families, and communities.
• Provide nationwide STEM education insights to the Ministry.
A STEM toolkit accompanies the framework to help schools apply it effectively.
Key Definitions (Cambodia Context)
• STEM refers to the four fields: Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics.
• STEM subjects include Math, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, ICT, and Earth Science.
• STEM education emphasizes real-life integration, modern teaching methods, and 21st-century skills (project-based learning, problem-solving, hands-on activities).
• STEM implementation includes active, collaborative, technology-supported learning and community-based projects.
1. Objectives and Goals of STEM Education in Cambodia
Cambodia aims to become an upper-middle-income country by 2030 and a developed nation by 2050. STEM is a critical tool to reach this goal.
A. For Students
• Build scientific and mathematical literacy.
• Develop critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
• Foster innovation and curiosity.
• Prepare for future STEM careers.
• Improve digital and technological skills.
• Strengthen communication and teamwork.
B. For Teachers
• Improve STEM knowledge and teaching methods.
• Promote continuous professional development.
• Use ICT and digital tools in teaching.
• Encourage creative and innovative teaching.
• Strengthen teacher collaboration and knowledge sharing.
C. For Schools
• Develop adequate STEM facilities and resources.
• Create STEM clubs and extracurricular opportunities.
• Support interdisciplinary STEM teaching.
• Strengthen school leadership in STEM planning.
• Promote partnerships for resource mobilization and innovation.
• Ensure equity, sustainability, and community involvement.
D. For STEM Programs
• Design context-based, integrated STEM curricula.
• Incorporate new technologies and gender-responsive approaches.
• Provide pathways to higher education and STEM careers.
• Regularly monitor and improve program quality.
2. School-Level STEM Education Framework Main Objective
The framework helps schools:
• Integrate interdisciplinary STEM teaching.
• Effectively implement STEM practices.
• Build students’ 21st-century skills and help them understand the link between school learning and real-life situations.
• Support students in making informed future career choices.
