The Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) has endorsed the theme “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era” for National and International Literacy Day, to be observed on September 8, 2025. The announcement underscores Cambodia’s commitment to advancing literacy in line with technological development and global transformation.
In his official message for the occasion, Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet emphasized that the chosen theme aims to raise awareness among citizens about the significance of literacy programs in the digital age. He encouraged all stakeholders to support initiatives that help disadvantaged groups—such as out-of-school children, adolescents, youth, factory workers, and indigenous communities—gain skills needed to contribute to Cambodia’s economic growth and social progress.
Linking Literacy with Digital Transformation
Samdech Hun Manet noted that the theme aligns with the Cambodia Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework 2021–2035, which focuses on preparing the nation for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This includes building digital citizens, developing digital government, and fostering digital business.
He stressed the importance of digital literacy, calling on society to increase the safe and effective use of digital tools for information management, creation, and sharing. Such skills, he said, are vital to improving productivity, competitiveness, and efficiency while supporting the nation’s journey toward a modern, knowledge-based society.
Expanding the Scope of Literacy
The Cambodian Premier highlighted that literacy today goes far beyond reading and writing. Modern literacy must also encompass global citizenship, digital citizenship, scientific understanding, technological skills, and shared values. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment not only to ensuring basic literacy for all citizens but also to equipping them with lifelong learning opportunities needed to thrive in a rapidly advancing world.
MOEYS Education Reforms Recognized
On behalf of the RGC, Samdech Hun Manet praised the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports (MOEYS) for its efforts in implementing reforms aimed at inclusive education and digital transformation. He cited key initiatives such as the promotion of science and technology subjects in secondary and higher education, emphasis on STEM learning, foreign language training, and the integration of 21st-century skills into the national curriculum.
He also pointed to efforts in expanding technical education, encouraging patriotism and citizenship, and creating lifelong learning opportunities for all Cambodians.
Advancing Digital Education
To accelerate digital literacy, the MOEYS has launched several initiatives, including the Center for Digital and Distance Education, the Cambodia Cyber University Network (CCUN), digital schools, and advanced education platforms to support teaching and learning. The ministry has also introduced management information systems and curricula focused on artificial intelligence, computer science, and scientific research.
These reforms, according to the Prime Minister, are vital for preparing Cambodia’s future workforce, ensuring that citizens are equipped with the knowledge and skills to succeed in a globalized, technology-driven world.