Phnom Penh (FN), Dec. 24 – Choi Moonjung, Country Director of KOICA Cambodia office had a meeting with Dith Tina, Minister of Mistry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) on 23 December 2024. The discussion focuses on its support for a grant committed to improving the capacity and quality of agricultural extension services in Cambodia. This commitment is confirmed through an in-depth study of the project “Building of Integrated Agriculture Extension-Education-Research Nexus of Climate Change Adaptation in Cambodia” which was finalized at the wrap-up meeting.
Throughout the meeting, KOICA confirmed its support of USD 12 million from 2025 to 2030 for the implementation of the aforementioned project. The Faculty of Agricultural Education and Communication will be improved on operation course and capacity of faculty, including the construction of a building with a dormitory, and equipment for media and communication practice, as well as the development of curriculum and training materials to provide higher education for students and to conduct research on farmer’s demand. In addition, the capacity of public officer engaged in agricultural extension services, mainly Commune Agriculture Officer (CAO) nationwide, will be enhanced capacity. The capacity-building program will focus not only on agricultural technical and facilitation skills but also on producing extension materials. This program aims to strengthen agricultural extension services at the local level, ultimately improving livelihoods for Cambodian farmers.
Dith Tina, Minister of MAFF mentioned the importance of investing in human resources of agriculture sector, mainly agricultural extension services. He emphasized that improving the capacity of CAO is crucial for ensuring that Cambodian farmers have access to the latest agricultural knowledge and technologies. By empowering these frontline extension officers, we can contribute to increased agricultural productivity, improved food security, and sustainable rural development.
Choi Moonjung, Country Director of the KOICA Cambodia Office, mentioned that KOICA always stands with the Cambodian government for economic and social development. This project inclusively supports the second program of the Cambodian Priority Policy Programs for the Agriculture Sector. On behalf of the government of the Republic of Korea, KOICA has committedly delivered its responsibilities to strengthen the partnership between the two countries and to bring the people closer together. KOICA has been actively involved in rural development in Cambodia, focusing on improving living conditions and agricultural income generation. Beside this pipeline project, KOICA has currently been implementing the Peace Village Project in 30 villages in the northwest region, including Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, and Pailin, with a view to foster inclusive and sustainable rural development.
=FRESH NEWS
