AKP Phnom Penh, July 15, 2026 —

The Embassy of India to the Kingdom of Cambodia and Preah Sihanouk Raja Buddhist University (SBU), Battambang Provincial Branch, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on July 15 to launch a new Quick Impact Project (QIP) dedicated to improving the quality of life for female students.

The MoU was signed by H.E. Vanlalvawna Bawitlung, Ambassador of India to Cambodia, and Venerable Vy Sovechea, President of SBU Battambang Branch, in a ceremony attended by university representatives and embassy officials.

The project focuses on furnishing and equipping the university’s newly constructed women’s dormitory with essential furniture and computer facilities. The initiative will directly benefit approximately 140 female students, many of whom come from rural and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. By establishing a safe, comfortable, and conducive living and learning environment, the project aims to help these students pursue higher education more effectively.

During the ceremony, Ambassador Vanlalvawna Bawitlung highlighted the deep and enduring civilisational ties between India and Cambodia, which are rooted in centuries of spiritual and cultural exchange—particularly through the shared heritage of Buddhism. He emphasised India’s ongoing commitment to supporting institutions that preserve these shared values while equipping young people with the skills necessary to develop their communities.

his project builds upon India’s long-standing partnership with Buddhist universities in Cambodia. Previous QIPs have successfully established Information Technology Centres at Preah Sihanouk Raja Buddhist University (Phnom Penh and Battambang branches), Preah Sihamoniraja Buddhist University, and Samdech Preah Mahasangharajah Bour Kry University. These initiatives reflect a mutual commitment to expanding educational opportunities, strengthening institutional capacity, and empowering Cambodian youth.

Cambodia remains a vital partner under India’s Act East Policy and the Mekong–Ganga Cooperation framework. India implements 10 Quick Impact Projects annually in Cambodia, focusing on grassroots impact, human development, and sustainable livelihoods.

To date, 73 QIPs have been approved across critical sectors including education, health, women's empowerment, sanitation, agriculture, and climate resilience. Of these, 55 have been successfully completed and 18 are currently under implementation, all closely aligned with the development priorities of the Royal Government of Cambodia.

By K. Rithy Reak