In a significant step toward enhancing the welfare of workers, the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training of Cambodia, led by Minister Heng Sour, is spearheading an initiative to establish community nurseries according to international standards. This pioneering project, held in collaboration with Planète Enfants & Développement and the World Bank, promises to set a benchmark in support systems for working parents.
On April 18, 2024, a productive meeting took place at the Ministry’s headquarters where experts from Planète Enfants & Développement and the World Bank outlined a comprehensive strategy for the creation of these nurseries. The discussions included methodologies for building the nurseries, ways to effectively survey workers’ needs, and the importance of employer collaboration in this commendable endeavor.
Minister Heng Sour expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the valuable insights provided during the presentation. He highlighted how these discussions contribute critically to the ministry’s ongoing efforts to support garment factory workers through enhanced community facilities.
“The establishment of community nurseries not only supports our workforce but also aligns with the visionary recommendations of Prime Minister Hun Manet, aiming to improve the quality of life for all Cambodians,” Minister Sour stated. He further elaborated on the Ministry’s commitment to implementing these plans with precision and care, ensuring that the nurseries will serve as a safe and nurturing environment for children.
The community nursery initiative is part of a broader strategy to provide targeted benefits to workers, and it falls under one of the ten pivotal recommendations made by Prime Minister Hun Manet in August 2023. These nurseries will be designed to alleviate the burden on working parents by offering reliable and state-of-the-art childcare solutions within close proximity to their workplaces.
By instituting standard operating procedures (SOPs) for these facilities, the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training is setting high standards for childcare in industrial zones. The collaborative efforts with various factory employers and international partners underscore a strong public-private partnership model, driving forward Cambodia’s social welfare policies.
This initiative not only reflects Cambodia’s dedication to its labor force but also positions the nation as a leader in worker welfare innovation in the region. As these community nurseries take shape, they are set to become a cornerstone of Cambodia’s approach to supporting its working families, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and productive workforce.
Khmer Times
