Phnom Penh (FN), Mar. 11 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet recalled John F. Kennedy's famous inaugural address included the call to action: "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country".

Samdech Thipadei cited this to emphasise the importance of patriotism, constructive participation, and civic duty.

The premier addressed over 4,500 Vanda Institute graduates on Tuesday morning (Mar. 11) at the Diamond Island Convention and Exhibition Centre.

"I always uphold the timeless words of former President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, in 1961: ‘Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.’ This serves as a guiding principle in fostering patriotism through active participation and civic duty," the premier stated.

Samdech Thipadei expressed his hope that the graduates would apply the knowledge gained from their studies to their respective fields, whether in government institutions, the private sector, national and international organisations, or self-employment. He stressed that as they enter the workforce, they will realise that academic knowledge must be combined with practical experience, adaptability, creativity, and situational awareness.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet expressed his strong belief that these graduates would overcome challenges to become exemplary citizens, dedicated civil servants, and skilled employees. He encouraged them to uphold professional integrity, responsibility, and ethics in their work, thereby contributing to national development.

Samdech Thipadei further emphasised that knowledge is the key to cultivating a progressive mindset and advancing the nation.

Samdech Thipadei also reminded the graduates that earning a bachelor's degree is just the beginning. He cited his own experience, stating that even him who earned a doctorate and now serves as Prime Minister continues to study daily, in line with the philosophy of lifelong learning. He underscored that a country's strength depends on the strength of its human capital and that national prosperity is built on talented individuals.

He continued, "A prosperous society requires stability, focus, and the accumulation of achievements. It involves preserving past successes, fostering new progress, and continuously strengthening knowledge and expertise across generations.”
=FRESH NEWS