In Cambodia, young people aged 15 to 29 account for almost 43% of the working-age population. In remote areas, access to quality education remains limited, generating concerns about the employability of rural youth.
The employment-related challenges of young people are multiple: a skills shortages in a context of rapid technological and economic change and a mismatch between skills and job market requirements. Many young people lack self-confidence and support in their career decisions.
Orientation in high schools
Since 2019, Sipar has initiated the creation of Library Orientation Corner (LOC) in secondary schools. The first was set up at Hun Sen Kraing Sramo high school in Kampong Chhnang.
Today, 16 LOC are in actity. By the end of Phase 2 of this program, the aim is to increase the number of establishments to 26 and, more broadly, to provide rural areas with a vast network of LOCs on a long-term basis.
Thanks to our partnership with thePasserelles Numériques NGO, a digital laboratory, the NomadLab, gives students access to digital resources to help them find their careers and develop their digital skills.
youth clubs / CBO
Since 2011, Sipar and its partner Youth Star Cambodia collaborate to promote volunteering in the remote provinces of Kratie and Prey Veng. The activities carried out by the members, aged between 8 and 20, benefit hundreds of children and adults, contributing to education and community development, and promoting youth involvement, solidarity and democratic values.
Clubs implement different actions within their community:
- Itinerant reading activities thanks to the "backpack library" : book lending service, entertainment and socio-educational activities for children and villagers
- Personalized tutoring for primary school pupils to prevent dropout and improve academic performance
- Awareness-raising campaigns for local residents on social and environmental issues
Career Forums
Sipar organizes career forums, meeting days between high school students and institutions, universities, NGOs and professionals from various sectors. These events enable them to explore academic and professional opportunities.
This is a pioneering initiative, in Cambodia, which is already bearing fruit. The results of a survey carried out in 2023 show that 54% of forum participants discovered new career prospects.
Since 2021, Sipar and its partner high schools have organized over 200 career forums and online conferences.
2021-2027: six years of youth empowerment
In 2021, Sipar launched its youth program, co-funded by the AFD. This programs aims to help young people in rural areas to develop career paths adapted to a changing job market, while reinforcing their autonomy and civic commitment.
Improving the employability of secondary school students living in rural areas, the project contributes to Cambodia's socio-economic development and the reduction of social and gender inequalities.
Positive results during phase 1 (2021-2024)
The first phase of the project showed very positive results. In high schools, the introduction of 16 LOCs and career forums has had a significant impact on student orientation and confidence. A survey carried out in 2023 revealed that 96% of students feel more confident about their post-secondary choices. Library use has also increased considerably.
In rural areas, 23 CBOs have played a key role in educating young people, while fostering their autonomy. Their members have improved their academic and personal skills, becoming role models and agents of change in their communities.
A second phase until 2027 (2023-2027)
This second phase will enhance the academic and digital skills of 36,000 young people, mostly girls, by creating 13 new libraries in 10 rural high schools and 3 youth centers, with multimedia equipment and career guidance forums.
The project will also encourage social commitment training over 500 members of youth clubs and high school student councils in organizing educational activities in their communities.
36 000
young beneficiaires
23
CBOs with 500 members
105
little teachers with 950 beneficiaries of tutoring
30
micro-libraries in rural villages
83
backpack libraries with 350 readers per month
My favorite activities are the backpack libraries and tutoring. Thanks to these activities, I have a lot improved my ability to work in a team, my flexibility and my research skills. That allows me to learn new skills useful for my studies. I really hope Sipar's team will keep on supporting our activities in rural areas.
HENG Sam Oun, 18 ans,
president of Peam Muntea CBO, Prey Veng