Although economic growth has been steady over the past 10 years, rural Cambodian youth still find it extremely difficult to access higher education opportunities due to both financial constraints and low levels of high school completion rates. Many rural youth, especially girls, will begin working in low-wage positions in garment or sugarcane factories after secondary school. Additionally, in the upcoming years the amount of youth entering the work force will outnumber the jobs available, thus social entrepreneurship skills have become increasingly valuable.
This project provides support for rural youth to continue their education in high school, university or vocational programs while accessing enrichment training with a focus on social entrepreneurship. As a patriarchal society, many girls drop out after middle school. A focus on gender equity provides opportunities for girls to continue their education and simultaneously teaches boys the importance of equality. The community service commitment of this project encourages youth to identify needs and be a part of the solutions in their communities. This model allows youth to continue their education past the 9th grade and secure their livelihoods long-term, break the cycle of poverty and contribute back to their rural home communities as leaders and professionals, particularly in areas of education, health and agriculture.
Utilizing The SSI Leadership Academy Program in Phnom Penh, this project will provide educational support for 25-30 rural, impoverished Cambodian youth to continue their education in high school, and then pursue university or vocational degrees while living at our Academy. This support includes full room and board at the Leadership Academy center, which is an enhanced dormitory setting where students access a safe and healthy living environment while they study and participate in programming to build skills in leadership, livelihood improvement and entrepreneurship. In addition, students receive regular English and computer classes, participate in public speaking clubs, and volunteer in their communities. The overarching goal of this project is that 100% of program alumni will be employed in their fields of study within one year of graduation.
Measurable Goals of the Project:
- Reduce gender disparities in education and STEM Careers
- Build capacity for entrepreneurs and community leaders to support economic development in rural, impoverished communities
- Reduce generational poverty in underserved, rural communities of Cambodia
- Students and alumni stimulate community development through partnership with local leaders and community members
- Program participants graduate with a degree and applicable skills preparing them for their career
- Program alumni secure employment earning a living wage
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