Thousands of students across Cambodia have started their Grade 12 examinations as they aim to achieve their high school diplomas and fulfill their dreams. The exams, known as Bac II 2023, are taking place on November 6th and 7th, with parents expressing optimism that their children will earn the grades necessary to pursue their desired paths in life.
To ensure the integrity of the exams, stringent measures have been implemented to prevent cheating. Police and military personnel have been deployed at the entrances of test centers across the country. These efforts reflect a nationwide commitment to maintaining the integrity of the examination process.
Proud parents have accompanied their children to the test centers, such as Toul Tom Poung and Sisowath, offering their support and good wishes. Kan Yab, a mother of three, has faith in her youngest daughter’s abilities and is incredibly proud of her children’s dedication to their studies. Yab and her daughter arrived at the exam center early in the morning to give them time to become familiar with the surroundings and to offer words of encouragement before the nerve-racking examinations begin.
Yab emphasizes her commitment to providing her children with education, even if she may not have enough resources to support them fully. She acknowledges the importance of education in shaping their future. Her daughter aspires to become a nurse, a dream that serves as a motivating factor for Yab to support her daughter’s academic journey and strive for excellence.
Another parent, Kan Sotheary, is optimistic about her daughter’s success due to her intelligence and hard work. Sotheary believes that her daughter will pass the exams and continue studying her preferred subjects. She stands behind her daughter, urging her to pursue her passions once the exams are successfully completed.
Hang Chuon Naron, the Minister of Education, was present at the Preah Sisowath Center to open the sealed exam papers, signaling the official commencement of this year’s examinations. Reflecting on the significance of these exams, Chuon Naron notes that they mark the culmination of 12 years of education for the students. He acknowledges the investment made by parents in their children’s education and emphasizes the role of exams in encouraging students to strive for excellence.
The government has implemented new education policies, including restrictions on the use of electronic devices in classrooms. Chuon Naron highlights the importance of maintaining discipline and avoiding any breakdown that may hinder students’ academic performance. The Anti Corruption Unit (ACU) conducts regular inspections to ensure compliance with these regulations. Only authorized individuals, such as the center’s chairman and committee members, are permitted to use electronic devices in necessary cases.
The results of the exams are scheduled to be announced on November 28th in Phnom Penh and Kandal province, and on November 29th in the remaining provinces. Last year, 90,950 candidates passed the exam, accounting for 72.33 percent of all candidates. These results reflect the hard work and dedication of the students as they strive to achieve their academic goals.