AKP Phnom Penh, September 01, 2025 --

The World Bank will support in improving primary education for over 1.7 million children in Cambodia following the World Bank’s approval of the Basic Education Improvement Project, according to a statement issued on Sept. 1. 

Co-financed by a US$100 million credit from the World Bank’s International Development Association and a US$5 million grant from the Early Learning Partnership Multi-Donor Trust Fund, the project will strengthen foundational literacy and numeracy skills in primary schools across the country. 

It will also expand access to early childhood education and childcare services, improve teaching quality, upgrade school infrastructure, and strengthen education management systems. 

“This project reflects the Royal Government of Cambodia’s strong commitment to investing in human capital and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn,” said H.E. Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth and Sport. 

“By focusing on foundational learning, we are laying the groundwork for a more resilient and prosperous future,” he said. 

Cambodia has made strides in expanding access to education, but assessments show that many children are not acquiring the basic literacy and numeracy skills needed for continued educational progress or high-skilled jobs. The Basic Education Improvement Project will address these challenges through cost-effective, evidence-based actions that improve learning outcomes. 

“Cambodia’s long-term growth depends on the strength of its human capital,” said Ms. Tania Meyer, World Bank Country Manager. “This project will help children acquire the foundational skills they need to succeed in school and in their future careers. 

The World Bank is proud to support a stronger, more resilient education system that prepares Cambodian children for the jobs of tomorrow.” 

The project will support the development of 60 public childcare centres and 60 new preschool classes to help working mothers’ access safe, affordable childcare while promoting school readiness. In addition to 1.7 million Cambodian children who are projected to benefit from improved primary education, approximately 2,200 children ages 0–2 years and 50,000 children ages 3–5 years will benefit from childcare and preschool expansion, respectively. 

To scale up early grade reading and math programmes nationwide, the project will offer mentoring and coaching to over 37,000 teachers and targeted instruction to students who have fallen behind. To reduce overcrowding and improve learning environments, it will finance the construction of more than 900 new classrooms and equip schools with gender-separated toilets and hand-washing facilities.

(Photo: World Bank Cambodia)

By Chea Vannak