KAMPONG SPEU, CAMBODIA — July 9, 2025 — Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet presided over the official inauguration of new school facilities in Kampong Speu province on July 8, reaffirming the Royal Government’s commitment to strengthening education as a foundation for economic growth and social progress.
Held in Kraing Ponlei village, Sangkat Veang Chas, Oudong Mechey city, the ceremony marked the unveiling of newly constructed school buildings, teacher accommodations, administrative offices, and related infrastructure.
“The progress of Kampong Speu would not have been possible without the Royal Government’s investment in education and human capital,” said Prime Minister Hun Manet. “I encourage youth in Kampong Speu and across the country to prioritise education as the key to future success.”
Kampong Speu: From Lagging to Leading
Once considered behind in development, Kampong Speu is now emerging as one of Cambodia’s most dynamic provinces. With strategic investments in education, infrastructure, and industry, the province is rapidly becoming a hub for economic activity and job creation.
According to Governor H.E. Cheam Chan Sophorn, Kampong Speu spans 6,969 square kilometres, lies just 48 kilometres from Phnom Penh, and is home to around 948,000 people. The province boasts a GDP per capita of US$2,000 and currently hosts 1,442 factories and enterprises, employing approximately 254,000 workers.
Investment Growth Boosts Local Economy
The province is also leading the country in new investment. In the first half of 2025, Cambodia approved 373 investment projects worth a total of US$5.8 billion, creating about 255,000 jobs nationwide. Kampong Speu ranked first, with 92 approved projects, confirming its status as a preferred destination for foreign and domestic investors.
This surge in investment aligns with the government’s education agenda, which aims to ensure that Cambodia’s workforce is equipped with the skills required to support its industrialization and sustainable development goals.
Education-Centered Infrastructure Development
The newly inaugurated facilities are part of a broader national push to enhance access to quality education, particularly in rural and emerging economic zones. The school buildings, housing for teachers, and administrative facilities will strengthen the province’s educational system, attract qualified teachers, and provide students with a more conducive learning environment.
These efforts reflect the Royal Government’s vision of using education to drive inclusive development, reduce inequality, and empower young Cambodians to thrive in a changing economy.
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A National Development Model
Prime Minister Hun Manet’s visit to Kampong Speu and his address at the ceremony highlight the province’s transformation into a model of provincial development. The integration of education policy with industrial growth strategies sets a powerful example for other provinces aiming to build sustainable and resilient local economies.
As Cambodia moves forward with its Pentagon Strategy Phase I, Kampong Speu’s success story underlines the importance of investing in people, particularly through education, as a cornerstone of national progress.
