Plan International Cambodia (PIC) has equipped 2,500 youths from Cambodia’s remote provinces with highly sought-after vocational skills. The move, part of a wider strategic initiative, targets those who have abandoned their schooling, providing them with invaluable professional training.
The scheme notably focuses on young women, with 1,300 benefitting so far, according to PIC’s press release.
PIC revealed that 2,500 of these youths, half of them hailing from Siem Reap, Ratanakkiri, and Stung Treng provinces, underwent vocational training that suits their social context and fulfils evolving market demands.
This initiative included a diverse range of practical skills, from small engine and motorcycle repairs to wedding design, cosmetology to mobile phone repairs. The broad skillsets offered were tailored to match the unique needs of each province’s job market.
“The training was delivered in collaboration with regional technical training institutes in Siem Reap, Stung Treng, and Ratanakkiri provinces,” it said.
Yi Kimthan, deputy country director for programmes for Plan International Cambodia, told The Post on June 19 that they have designed this programme to provide at-risk youth with the chance to invest in their future, through acquiring skills that enhance their employment opportunities and command competitive salaries.
“Before we provided the youth with the training, market needs were carefully analysed. For instance, Siem Reap has a high demand for skills in food and beverage service and hospitality, as well as air conditioner installation and repair. In contrast, Stung Treng and Ratanakkiri provinces, which are home to several ethnic minorities, require skills like motorcycle repair and salon services,” Kimthan added.
Kimthan said the project did not only impart vocational and technical skills. It also honed the trainees’ soft skills. In cooperation with partner institutions and the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, PIC educated these young people on effective communication, teamwork, CV writing, and job interviewing –crucial complements to the hard skills they’ve acquired.
“PIC particularly focused on the needs of young women, those aged 15 and over, who had dropped out of school and lived in remote areas. These young women are rarely given opportunities because their parents are often unwilling to let them leave their villages or homes,” he added.
A testament to the programme’s success, Si Thai, a former school dropout, recounted her experience. She revealed that after completing a six-month training course, she was able to open her own salon.
“With such support, I can now generate income and sustain my family. Despite regretting my early school departure, I am satisfied with what I have achieved – a stable job enabling me to provide for my family,” she said.
