Empowering Cambodia’s Future: A Journey of Educational Humanitarianism
In 2018, driven by a deep-seated desire to serve humanity, I embarked on a transformative journey to Cambodia, dedicating two years to humanitarian work across various country regions. The path of humanitarianism was uncharted territory for me, but the gravitation towards work that made a real difference was solid and undeniable.
The need for humanitarian aid in Cambodia was immediately evident upon my arrival. The nation was still grappling with the aftereffects of the genocide of the 1970s, an event that decimated a quarter of its population through ruthless oppression, torture and murder. The Khmer Rouge regime, in its tyrannical quest to eradicate capitalist and colonial influences, systematically destroyed every Cambodian institution, having devastating impacts on religion, culture and education.
This historical context painted a picture of the challenges facing Cambodia’s education system, which still struggles to recover and provide essential skills and knowledge to its youth. Many young Cambodians, especially those from rural regions, still need access to even basic education.
As someone who profoundly values learning and academia, I was naturally drawn to contribute to the field of educational humanitarianism. I would collaborate with various educational NGOs, dedicating my efforts to fundraising, building, and strategising for initiatives that provide free basic education for underprivileged kids and teens from rural parts of Cambodia. I saw these organisations as true beacons of hope for the future of Cambodian society.
My commitment to educational humanitarian work in Cambodia transcended a mere interest in academia and learning, however. After observing the broader societal, economic and institutional landscapes, I recognised that education was the key for uplifting the future from poverty. It wasn’t just about passing on knowledge and skills; education represented a powerful, long-lasting tool for change, capable of transforming people’s lives, even without my physical presence.
This belief in education was reinforced during a recent visit to Cambodia, where I spent time with a close Cambodian friend. His life story was a testament to the power of education. Coming from a background of poverty, he worked hard throughout his childhood, earning money to fund a university education. His pursuit of higher education led him to a career that broke the cycle of poverty. His journey stood as living proof that education is a potent source of empowerment, growth and liberation.