For students in some of Cambodia’s most remote communities, access to a nearby school can determine whether they continue their education or leave school early. Education projects supported by the World Bank Group are working to address that challenge through improved facilities, teacher training and stronger school management.

More than 3,200 schools are benefiting from programmes that have trained nearly 6,000 teachers, school leaders and education staff.

In Ratanakiri province, students from remote villages are using school dormitories to continue their secondary education despite living dozens of kilometres from their classrooms. At Anteveasikthan High School, more than 450 students live in dormitories, although overcrowding remains a challenge. A new four-storey dormitory and renovated kitchen are planned to improve conditions.

The school serves more than 850 students, with the majority coming from indigenous communities. Teachers say the stability provided by dormitory accommodation has helped students maintain strong attendance and participate more actively in class.

In Kratie province, Kranhoung Sen Chey High School has also undergone a major transformation. What was once a small lower-secondary school with around 80 students has expanded into a campus serving more than 700 students, with new buildings, improved sanitation and better access.

Teacher training is another key part of the effort. Educators are adopting more student-centred approaches designed to strengthen critical thinking, communication and confidence.

The broader goal is to expand learning opportunities and equip more than 1.3 million Cambodian students with skills that can improve their prospects in an evolving labour market.