Phnom Penh – On the morning of November 2, 2023, H.E Chea Somethy, Minister of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation accompanied Samdach Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia to a gathering of workers at a local factory in Koh Kor village, Roka Khpos Commune, Takhmao City, Kandal Province.

The occasion brought together thousands of dedicated factory workers, totaling 18,190 participants. Among them were 653 pregnant workers, representing a broad spectrum of industries in the region. These 29 factories encompassed a range of industries, comprising 20 garment factories, 3 dedicated to travel and bags production, 2 specialized in shoemaking, 2 laundry facilities, and 1 each for embroidery and clothes printing.

Samdach Hun Manet shared an inspiring announcement during this gathering. He conveyed his intention to initiate a vocational training program designed to benefit approximately 1.5 million young individuals from underprivileged and vulnerable families. This transformative program is scheduled to commence on November 14, 2023, with the aim of equipping Cambodia’s youth with essential skills for a brighter future.

During his address to nearly 20,000 workers, Samdach Hun Manet emphasized the need for streamlining the registration process for the vocational training program. He called for a simplified and accessible approach to registration to ensure that young individuals can participate without unnecessary hurdles.

Furthermore, Samdach Hun Manet urged the Ministry of Labor to engage in discussions with private stakeholders to identify and address specific skill gaps. This collaborative effort will ensure that vocational training aligns with the dynamic needs of the job market, enabling trainees to gain skills that are in high demand.

The commencement of this vocational training program is slated for November 14, 2023, and it coincides with the official announcement of the Implementation of the Social Security Fund for Voluntary Contributions to Health Care, catering to self-employed individuals and their dependents. The inauguration ceremony will be overseen by His Excellency Samdach Hun Manet.