The Royal Government of Cambodia has made it a top priority to keep children in school even after they were forced to leave their homes due to a recent military attack on Cambodian land. This sends a strong message of hope and commitment to the country’s future generation.
Forced to Flee
Thousands of families from two villages, Prey Chan and Chouk Chey (in Banteay Meanchey province), had to run for safety after a serious cross-border attack by Thai soldiers on November 12, 2025. This attack caused injuries and forced many people to leave, stopping the schooling of thousands of children.
Government’s Quick Response
Under the watchful and caring eyes of Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet and Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Abhisantibindit Sar Sokha, efforts are quickly moving forward to make sure these displaced children can resume their studies.
During a visit on November 19th, H.E. Oum Reatrey, the Provincial Governor of Banteay Meanchey, visited the temporary safety center set up at Chan Sy Samaki Ratanaram pagoda. He stressed that safeguarding the education of these children is the government’s highest concern.
He emphasized that the commitment from the top leaders goes beyond just providing food and safety; it shows a deep concern for the long-term future of Cambodia’s youth.
Setting Up a New School
To make sure learning continues smoothly, a temporary school facility has been quickly set up right inside the Chan Sy Samaki Ratanaram safety center.
Governor Oum Reatrey urged all parents and guardians to register their children for primary school immediately. To keep things familiar for the students, teachers from their home village (Prey Chan) have been brought to the temporary site.
In addition to giving out necessary school supplies, the Governor said that officials are working to provide school uniforms, ensuring the students can attend classes properly.
A Grateful Community
These combined efforts show that the government is providing full support (both physical supplies and moral encouragement) to prevent the conflict from derailing children’s education.
The thousands of families taking shelter at the center expressed deep thanks for the warm support and coordinated help from the government and local officials.
One person staying at the center shared emotionally: “We are truly grateful to everyone who has helped us—from shelter and food to security. What means even more is the support for our children to continue their education right here in the safety center. We no longer worry about their future.”
This initiative confirms Prime Minister Hun Manet’s forward-thinking leadership and the government’s strong promise to ensure that no Cambodian child is left behind—even during a crisis.