Phnom Penh (FN), Feb. 26 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet decided to extend the contract period for contract teachers from one year to two years. Previously, each contract was valid for only one year. This decision aims to ensure the stability of teachers' salaries and improve the sustainability of the education sector.
The premier spoke on Wednesday (Feb. 26) at the closing of the MOEYS’s 2024 annual meeting at the Institute of Technology of Cambodia.
Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet underlined that when selecting teachers, the Royal Government must consider both quantity and quality. Teachers must meet clear qualifications and adhere to the regulations set by the Ministry of Education. Without properly qualified teachers, students at the primary level will not receive quality education or develop a strong knowledge foundation.
Samdech Thipadei acknowledged that some schools, particularly those in remote areas, face teacher shortages. While recruiting primary school teachers is relatively easier, finding qualified secondary and high school teachers remains a challenge due to the diverse range of subjects. To address this, the Ministry of Education has been supplementing teaching staff with contract teachers.
Prime Minister Hun Manet stated, “Currently, most primary school contract teachers are on one-year contracts. I just discussed this with Minister Hang Chuon Naron, and now we are increasing it from one year to two years. This extension will allow for smoother implementation and better outcomes.”
Samdech Thipadei clarified that this two-year contract extension applies only to teachers to ensure consistency in the teaching process.
The premier also expressed his appreciation for teachers who voluntarily dedicate extra hours to educating students. He reaffirmed the Royal Government’s commitment to supporting these efforts by providing additional resources to enhance education at the local level.
Furthermore, he instructed the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Public Service to review the period of volunteer teaching, ensuring that volunteer teachers have the opportunity to transition into formal teaching positions. He highlighted the importance of evaluating teachers' qualifications directly, rather than prolonging their volunteer period indefinitely.
Prime Minister Hun Manet also called for a thorough review of policies concerning teacher dismissals. He urged school principals to take proactive measures to prevent teacher shortages in their institutions.
Additionally, the premier praised the ongoing reforms in Cambodia’s education sector, particularly improvements to the high school leaving exam, which have enhanced the quality and efficiency of teaching and learning.
Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet reaffirmed the government’s continuous efforts to strengthen education at all levels. He underlined that while significant progress has been made in previous mandates, further efforts are needed to ensure high-quality student outcomes. Strengthening the education system requires reinforcing grassroots education, a principle that has been advocated since before the seventh-mandate election. A strong educational foundation is crucial for long-term national development.
=FRESH NEWS
