(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that academic excellence is not solely dependent on a student’s family financial background. Instead, it relies on personal determination and effort. He stated that it is a misconception to assume children from poor families perform worse academically than those from more privileged households.
The premier spoke on Friday (May 9) during the inauguration of the Techo Santepheap Dormitory and other achievements at Svay Pope Pagoda, Phnom Penh.
Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet underscored, “Regardless of whether parents are rich, poor, or living in remote rural areas, they always strive to ensure their children receive an education. Our people believe that only knowledge can ensure long-term stability.”
Samdech Thipadei expressed deep admiration for a student from Prey Veng Province who, despite challenging living conditions, his father being a tuk-tuk driver and his mother working as a dishwasher, managed to claim the top spot in the 2025 National Mathematics Excellence Awards.
On the occasion, the prime minister added that the Cambodian people's belief in the value of education aligns with that of other societies around the world: knowledge is the only enduring asset parents can pass on to their children, while material wealth can easily be lost if one lacks the skills to maintain it.
Samdech Thipadei added that academic ability and future career performance are ultimately up to the individual, no parent can guide their child step-by-step throughout life.
In this context, Samdech Thipadei urged all youth to remain committed to their studies, to respect their parents and teachers, and to strive for a better future. He also warned against forming gangs, engaging in violence, or committing actions that society condemns and that violate the law. He highlighted that young people who break the law will be held accountable, as has always been the case.
It should be noted that the student praised by Samdech Thipadei is Chan Sovannareach, a 12th-grade student from Bun Rany Hun Sen Prey Poun High School in Kampong Trabek District, Prey Veng Province, who earned the highest national score in mathematics.
=FRESH NEWS
