Four Cambodian students have been awarded prestigious ASEAN scholarships to pursue secondary and pre-university studies in Singapore, in a move seen as a direct investment in human capital vital to Cambodia’s long-term development goals.
During an October 30 ceremony, hosted by the Singapore Embassy in Phnom Penh, scholarship recipients Thay Samrithikun, Tuon Chanveasna, Taing Chumpounut and Kim Setharoth were officially congratulated.
“The award provides a four-year academic journey starting from Secondary 3 and leading to the Singapore-Cambridge GCE A-Level certificate or its equivalent,” explained an embassy statement.
The ASEAN Scholarship, granted to outstanding students across the members of the bloc, is designed not only to promote academic excellence but to foster leadership, critical thinking and cross-cultural understanding — qualities regarded as vital for emerging leaders in an increasingly interconnected region.
Speaking at the event, Nguon Sokcheng, deputy director-general of Higher Education at the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, emphasised the significance of the scholarship in supporting Cambodia’s national development ambitions.
“This scholarship represents a direct investment in the high-calibre human capital essential to achieving Cambodia’s Pentagonal Strategy and contributing to the long-term prosperity of the ASEAN community,” she said.
She also had a message for the students who received the scholarships.
“You are strategic ambassadors for Cambodia. As you advance in the rigorous STEM fields, you are preparing to become the skilled professionals need to drive Cambodia’s digital transformation, innovation and economic resilience,” she said.
The ceremony also featured a video message from Judy Kuy, a Cambodian recipient of the ASEAN Scholarship in 2023, who reflected on how her experience in Singapore had been transformative.
“Coming to Singapore has completely changed who I am – be prepared to see that change in yourself too,” she said.
Kuy encouraged the new scholars to embrace both the opportunities and challenges ahead.
“You will be challenged, make mistakes and ultimately, be forced to become a better version of you,” she added.
As Cambodia sharpens its focus on STEM education and digital innovation, the scholarship continues to offer a platform for young Cambodians to play an active role in shaping the nation’s future.
