AKP Phnom Penh, June 06, 2025 --

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth and Sports, H.E. Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, officially opened the 14th National Science Conference on June 5, at the Institute of Technology of Cambodia.

The conference, held under the theme “Harnessing the Potential of Research and Development for Innovation and Growth,” aimed to celebrate the vital role of research and development in driving Cambodia’s progress.

The event provided a platform for sharing knowledge, experiences, and research findings among domestic and international academic institutions and private sector stakeholders. It also sought to strengthen partnerships in joint research and capacity building.

In his opening remarks, H.E. Dr. Hang Chuon Naron emphasised the importance of the conference in enabling researchers and students to showcase their innovations, connect with industry professionals, and contribute to building a vibrant research community. He noted that the conference also created a valuable opportunity for high school students to gain a deeper understanding of STEM disciplines, helping them better prepare for future studies and careers.

Addressing the conference's theme, the Deputy Prime Minister underlined the crucial role of research and development in advancing innovation across all sectors. He highlighted the importance of enhancing productivity, service quality, and enterprise efficiency through collaboration between academic institutions, industries, and government. He also stressed the need for a supportive environment for innovation, led by the royal government initiatives.

H.E. Dr. Hang Chuon Naron pointed out that much of the recent research is focused on the rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI), noting differing perspectives on its impact. While some express concern about AI replacing human jobs, others argue that AI is improving work efficiency, enhancing 21st-century teaching and learning, and empowering humans to reach new heights—provided they continue to develop relevant skills and competencies.

He reaffirmed the Royal Government’s ongoing commitment to advancing research and innovation through strategic partnerships among academia, industry, and the public sector. This effort supports the diversification of the national economy, the development of the private sector, and the growth of a digital society.

As part of this strategy, and in alignment with the first phase of Cambodia’s Pentagon Strategy, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports, has launched its Education Strategic Plan 2024–2028. The plan aims to ensure inclusive, equitable, and high-quality education for all Cambodians, with a strong emphasis on 21st-century skills, discipline, ethics, well-being, physical development, and lifelong learning.

By K. Rithy Reak