The Cambodian Ministry of Post and Telecommunications has launched an exciting and innovative programme called “Digital Talents” to empower high school students to become digital citizens. This reality show-style competition aims to foster digital creativity and problem-solving skills among Cambodian youth, offering them a unique chance to contribute to Cambodia’s digital revolution.
An Opportunity for Cambodia’s Youth
“Digital Talents” is a ground-breaking initiative that provides students in grades 10 to 12 with the opportunity to learn from experts in the field of digital technology. The programme, which is free of charge, spans 14 weeks and covers a range of digital topics, including robotics, data science, financial technology, AI, digital marketing, and 3D printing.
The competition consists of three stages: selection, auditions, and the battle zone. Candidates who progress through each stage will compete in the semi-finals and finals, ultimately vying for the coveted title of Digital Talents. The winners will not only receive scholarships and opportunities for undergraduate studies at international universities but will also be recognised as Cambodia’s digital talents.
A Catalyst for Change
The creation of the Digital Talents educational programme not only introduces Cambodians to new digital knowledge but also serves as a catalyst for exploring alternative approaches to acquiring digital skills. H.E. San Vathana, Under Secretary of State of Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports, emphasised the importance of nurturing digital talents beyond traditional classrooms and fostering continuous learning and improvement.
“In order to become a talented and knowledgeable individual, one must undergo three key stages. Firstly, it is crucial to preserve and nurture one’s natural talents. Secondly, there is a need to cultivate those talents through education and continuous learning,” he said. “Lastly, individuals must refine and advance their talents through ongoing improvement and development,” he added.
A Vision for the Future
H.E. Chea Vandeth, Minister of Post and Telecommunications, highlighted the long-term vision of establishing digital technology centres in all 588 high schools across the country. “If we achieve this, our future policy will be successful because the graduates will become digital citizens and play major roles in the digital socio-economic framework,” he said.
Vandeth acknowledged that the Kingdom faces a shortage of technology professionals, particularly at a time when global trends are shifting towards the digital revolution. He expressed his expectation that within the next 5 to 10 years, Cambodia will have sufficient human resources to advance the country in the field of digital technology.
Rewarding Excellence
The overall competition winner will receive a cash prize of $3,750 and a four-year scholarship to the American University of Phnom Penh. Second and third place winners will also receive four-year scholarships, as well as cash prizes of $2,500 and $1,250 respectively. The remaining top 20 students will each be awarded a new computer and $500.
“The Digital Talents programme is an important step forward in Cambodia’s journey towards a digital future.” “By nurturing and empowering our youth, we are laying the groundwork for a generation of skilled professionals who will drive the nation’s digital transformation and contribute to the global digital landscape,” Mr. Thomit Chin, CEO & Founder of iDEN Agency and Founder/ President of International Youth for a Better World, said in an interview with The Better Cambodia.
The Digital Talents programme is a significant step forward in securing a bright digital future for Cambodia. By equipping the nation’s youth with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the digital realm, the programme ensures that Cambodia will have a competitive edge in the global digital landscape.
As these young talents grow and contribute to the country’s digital transformation, they will not only help to bridge the existing technology gap but also create new opportunities for innovation and economic growth. Ultimately, the Digital Talents programme is an investment in Cambodia’s future, fostering a generation of digital citizens who will drive the nation’s progress and prosperity in the years to come.
