Phnom Penh (FN), Sep. 27 – The opening of the first UK university campus was officially announced at a launch ceremony on 25 September 2023. De Montfort University (DU) is a dynamic institution based in Leicester, UK, with a long and vibrant history of empowerment and education. Founded in 1870, DMU has for over 150 years, provided inspirational teaching to students and is bringing this focus on excellence and making a global impact to Cambodia.

For the first time, local and international students will be able to study and earn a UK degree at a British university campus in Cambodia - benefiting from the globally recognised advantages of receiving a UK university education.

The launch event was led by deputy prime minister, minister of the Ministry of education, youth and sport Hang Chuon Naron. Also, in attendance were the UK prime minister's trade envoy to Cambodia Heather Wheeler MP, British ambassador to Cambodia Dominic Williams MBE, DMU Vice-Chancellor Katie Normington, president DMU Kazakhstan and managing director Sakina Zafar, DMU pro vice-chancellor international EdPeritus and Simon Bradbury.

The guests of honour were joined by a wide range of senior distinguished attendees including those from government, the education sector and business leaders. A number of key themes were discussed during the opening, including how Cambodia's education systems continue to undergo significant positive change, with a continued focus on improving quality, increasing access, and promoting internationalisation.

During her special remarks, DMU vice-chancellor Katie Normington, discussed DU's global campus network and international reach and how empowerment is at the heart of its strategy. She discussed how these elements will support the vision for DMU Cambodia and said, 'It is perhaps no surprise then that we are here in Cambodia. A country that is seeing rapid progress and growth in industry and a demand for high quality graduates. DMU Cambodia will be part of our global community initially focusing on Business, Finance and IT courses to support the needs to the country.'

The launching ceremony also signalled the start of the British embassy's 'Great British Education Month', aims to promote UK education sector excellence and to grow the link between UK and Cambodia in the field of education.
=FRESH NEWS