Cambodia, with its young and dynamic population, offers a unique opportunity for development. However, many challenges remain for young people in rural areas: lack of skills, access to resources and support in planning their future. The second phase of the youth empowerment program, aligned with national policy, is designed to meet these essential needs.

The project is scheduled in three phases, ending in late 2030, at the end of the construction schedule of the SDGs but also at Cambodia's goal of becoming an upper-middle-income country. At the end of the project, the country's rural areas will be equipped with a vast, permanent network of libraries with multimedia orientation spaces in secondary schools and youth centers, helping to train young, committed citizens capable of taking an active part in their country's socio-economic development.

Strengthening academic and digital skills

To help young people flourish and better prepare for the future, the project focuses on improving academic and digital skills. Key actions :

• • Creation of 11 new libraries in rural high schools and youth centers.
  • Multimedia equipment with computers and software for career guidance.
  • Organization of career forums.

These initiatives will provide 42,000 young people, the majority of them girls, with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing professional world.

Promoting social and civic engagement

The project also aims to develop young people's social and civic skills, actively involving them in their communities. Key actions :

• • Training for members of youth clubs, officially known as Community Based Organizations (CBOs), to organize educational activities such as tutoring, backpack libraries, etc.
  • Raising community awareness of social and environmental issues.
  • Micro-libraries run by student councils in their communities.

By taking part in these initiatives, young people learn to become committed and responsible citizens.

Strengthening educational institutions

The sustainability of our actions relies on the training of educational and school managers. Key actions :

• • Training in library management with PMB software.
  • Awareness of professional accompaniment and community animation.
  • Strengthening local partnerships to sustain the project's achievements.

These efforts will ensure that libraries and orientation programs remain active after the end of this phase.

Expected results

1. A network of multimedia libraries in 27 high schools and 4 youth centers to help students make informed choices about their future.
2. In their rural communities, young people get involved and become leaders through volunteer activities.
3. Ultimately, a sustainable institutionalization of educational practices adapted to local needs.

By investing in youth development, this initiative prepares young Cambodians to become agents of change in a rapidly changing socio-economic context. The second phase of this program marks a key step towards reducing inequalities and building a promising future for Cambodia.