AKP Phnom Penh, June 05, 2026 --

H.E. Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth and Sport, underscored the importance of strengthening collaboration among academia, industry, and government to advance research and innovation for Cambodia’s sustainable development.

The remarks were made during the opening ceremony of the 15th Scientific Day 2026 themed “Bridging Engineering and Technology with Industry for Cambodia’s Sustainable Growth” and a regional workshop on Science-Policy Dialogue for Plastic Waste Management Towards a Circular Economy, held at the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC) on June 4.

The event brought together senior officials from the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, representatives of the European Union Delegation to Cambodia, the Embassy of France, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the French Development Agency, academics, private sector representatives, and students.

Organised through cooperation among public institutions, higher education institutions, and the private sector, the conference and workshop aimed to celebrate the role of research and development in supporting Cambodia’s progress while serving as a platform to exchange knowledge, research findings, and strengthen partnerships.

In his keynote address, H.E. Dr. Hang Chuon Naron said the conference theme reflects the need to deepen cooperation among educational institutions, industries, and policymakers to transform knowledge into practical solutions, promote competitive technologies, and build an innovation ecosystem that supports sustainable and knowledge-based development.

He noted that the event also provides opportunities for universities, researchers, and students to showcase research outcomes and innovations while expanding networks and collaboration with industries and stakeholders.

Recognising human capital as a key pillar of national competitiveness, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted major education reform priorities, including strengthening school governance, modernising curricula, expanding digital education, establishing centres of excellence in higher education institutions, enhancing institutional capacity, and encouraging stronger engagement among schools, families, communities, and industries.

To support these priorities, the Ministry continues promoting research and innovation through four strategic directions: strengthening policy and financing mechanisms, building research capacity, enhancing monitoring and evaluation systems, and expanding international cooperation and partnerships to facilitate knowledge exchange and technology transfer.

On behalf of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, H.E. Dr. Hang Chuon Naron expressed appreciation to development partners and stakeholders for their continued support in advancing engineering education, research and development (R&D), and innovation at ITC, reaffirming Cambodia’s commitment to investing in human capital development.

By C. Nika