Phnom Penh (FN), Feb. 27 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet clarified that new-generation schools are distinct from modern learning centres.

In addition, the new generation schools are not being dismantled but rather expanded. These schools are state-run institutions designed to enhance the skills and capabilities of citizens under the leadership and management of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport.

The premier spoke on Thursday (Feb. 27) at the closing of the 2024 annual meeting of the Ministry of Tourism at OCIC, Phnom Penh.

“Yesterday, I announced the cancellation of modern learning centres operating within primary and secondary schools. There has been some misunderstanding, with some believing this applies to new generation schools,” the premier underlined.

Samdech Thipadei continued, “I would like to clarify that these two types of schools are different. There are currently 13 new generation schools, and we plan to establish more. We have no intention of closing them; instead, we will explore ways to further expand them, as they play a crucial role in improving citizens' abilities under the Ministry of Education’s leadership and management.”

Samdech Thipadei firmly stated that there will be no cancellation or closure of new generation schools, reaffirming the government’s continued support. These schools are entirely state-administered, with the director, teachers, and curriculum all under government management. The teaching standards remain consistent for all students. The only change is that guardians will no longer be required to pay fees, as the state will assume full financial responsibility.

Regarding the closure of modern learning centres, Prime Minister Hun Manet explained, “These modern learning centres are similar to new generation schools but operate under a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, in which the private sector invests for 15 years in a public school. This means that when this school signs a memorandum of understanding (MoU), it provides buildings to a private company, state buildings in a public school, to implement projects like private schools, taking national programs plus additional programs, but managed privately.”

The premier further noted that modern learning centres operate with two different teaching standards within the same school: one for fee-paying students and another for non-paying students. In contrast, new-generation schools maintain a single standard for all students. He stressed that having two different standards within one institution is not sustainable and, therefore, cannot be expanded.

On the occasion, Premier Hun Manet also urged understanding from guardians and teachers whose children study or work at modern learning centres, highlighting that the decision was made after extensive deliberation. He added that allowing modern learning centres to continue operating would lead to long-term, worsening issues.
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