The STEAM mobile truck : a scientific adventure for all
Integral part of the mobile libraries program of Sipar, this mobile truck dedicated to science enables more than 16,000 children each year to learn about science, improve their mathematical skills and explore art and traditional Khmer dance...
Twice a month, the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) mobile library travels to nine villages to offer reading and learning sessions on these themes. It complements the weekly reading activities in the 54 villages served by the other mobile libraries circulating around Phnom Penh and neighbouring provinces, as well as in the high schools supported by the youth empowerment program.
By providing these activities in rural areas, Sipar promotes equal opportunities and enables each child to become a player in his or her own development, building a better future for his or her community.
The importance of mastering STEAM
In Cambodia, inequalities between urban and rural areas persist, making it essential to master STEAM to prepare children - future players in the world of work - to build a more equitable future. These disciplines enable them to acquire essential skills for tackling major local challenges - such as water management in the face of climate change.
With this in mind, in February 2025 Sipar took part in the STEAM Festival to present its innovative educational activities to the general public. In line with the government's STEAM education objectives, Sipar is actively contributing to the transformation of Cambodia's education sector.
A typical STEAM session (about 2h)
Reading session: storytelling and free reading on the STEAM theme - over 2,000 examples of fiction and non-fiction related to science, engineering, mathematics, the environment, arts and culture etc...
STEAM activities, subdivided in two parts:
- Experiments, games and observations in workshops to introduce children aged 6 to 12 to science
- Creative and artistic activities such as traditional dances, discovering primary and secondary colors in painting and creating painted works, making musical instruments...
Each session also includes a time dedicated to introducing children to new technologies through the use of digital tablets with basic math, science and Khmer games aimed at primary and secondary school children.
A wide range of experience
- Electricity transmission
- Motion of the Earth and Moon around the Sun
- Particles reaction
- Wastewater treatment and pH measurement of drinking water
- Sound waves
- Acetylene gas experiment
….
Weekly meeting in front of Phnom Penh's Royal Palace
Every Saturday and Sunday evening, the people of Phnom Penh now have the chance to come and read, draw, play and experiment with the resources of the mobile library. Set up in front of Phnom Penh's Royal Palace, in the now pedestrianized street on weekend evenings, curious young and old alike can come and meet our teams and enjoy a moment of leisure alone or with the family. Our mission is to democratize access to reading and education for all.
At the moment, the activities of the STEAM mobile library are not financed. Join us in our mission by making a donation: click here. Thank you. 🙏