Poipet, Cambodia – Samakie Meanchey Primary School has reached a major milestone, officially recognized by the Cambodian Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports (MoEYS) as a National Model School. This recognition highlights the school’s commitment to improving education, hands-on learning, and sustainable development.
Located in Poipet, Banteay Meanchey Province, Samakie Meanchey serves 508 students from kindergarten to grade 6 and is supported by 16 dedicated teachers. The school became a beneficiary of the Partnership School Project (PSP) in 2023, thanks to the support of Prime Road Alternative (Cambodia) Co., Ltd., the Population and Community Development Association (PDA), the Mechai Foundation, and SEVA (Socio-Economic Vision Alliance).
As a result of its progress, Samakie Meanchey received a 5,000,000 Riel prize from MoEYS, awarded based on five key indicators:
- Student Performance
- Teaching and Learning Management
- Community Engagement
- School Operation and Management
- School Responsibility
This achievement reflects the school’s dedication and serves as an inspiration for other Cambodian state schools.
A Model for Success
The Partnership School Project has played a vital role in the school’s transformation, introducing sustainable development, hands-on learning opportunities, and promoting community engagement.
Economic & School Development
The introduction of school vegetable gardens has provided an additional income stream while enhancing learning. Profits from produce sales have been reinvested into school infrastructure, creating a self-sufficient financial model that ensures continuous improvements. The success of this initiative highlights the scalability and sustainability of the project.
Education & Skill Development
Beyond traditional academics, students, teachers, and community members have gained valuable agricultural skills, including organic farming techniques, homemade organic pesticide production, soil management, solar-powered irrigation systems, bookkeeping and financial literacy. These skills empower the wider community, reinforcing responsibility, innovation, and environmental awareness.
Self-Sufficiency & Sustainability
One of the most significant successes of this initiative is long-term sustainability. The school community is now equipped to, independently manage and maintain their gardens, experiment with crop diversification, and reinvest profits into school development. This model encourages self-reliance and innovation, extending its impact beyond the school to broader community development.
A Brighter Future for Cambodian Schools
Samakie Meanchey’s success story demonstrates how education, sustainability, and community collaboration can create robust, self-sufficient learning environments. With its Model School status, the school is now positioned to inspire and guide other institutions in adopting similar approaches.
This recognition is not just an achievement for Samakie Meanchey—it is proof that transformative, educational developments are possible when schools, communities, and organizations work together. However, continued support is essential to sustain and expand these efforts. With the right investment in resources, training, and infrastructure, this model of hands-on learning, financial self-sufficiency, and community engagement can be replicated in schools across Cambodia. By scaling up this initiative, more students can benefit from practical skills, improved school environments, and economic sustainability, ultimately strengthening the national education system. With continued support and committed stakeholders, other Cambodian schools can follow in its footsteps, ensuring a brighter, more self-sufficient future for education nationwide.
