AKP Phnom Penh, April 27, 2025 --

Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has urged the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training to assess and certify individuals who possess technical skills but have never received formal vocational training.

The Premier made the call at a gathering with over 5,000 leaders from informal economy unions and academic staff associations, held this morning at the Chroy Changvar International Convention and Exhibition Centre in Phnom Penh, on the occasion of the 139th Anniversary of International Labour Day (May 1).

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet emphasised that awarding certificates to skilled individuals in the informal economy would create new opportunities for them. He noted that in the future, enterprises and companies are likely to prioritise hiring workers who can present official certifications or proof of their qualifications.

“If someone has the skills, we should establish a standard evaluation system. Those who meet the standards should be granted certificates," he said. "With such certification, they will have more opportunities to work in companies that increasingly require proof of skills."

In addition, the Prime Minister highlighted the Royal Government's ongoing vocational and technical training programme, which offers free training to 1.5 million young people from poor and vulnerable families. Participants also receive a monthly stipend of 280,000 Riel (approximately US$70).

This programme is designed to help Cambodian youth develop both technical expertise and essential life skills, ultimately leading to better employment opportunities and higher incomes.

By Chea Vannak