Project description:

​Despite growth in the tourism sector, Cambodia remains one of the poorest and least developed countries in Southeast Asia, ranking 151st out of 193 in the 2025 Human Development Index, which takes into account education, health and income. Development is uneven, with many rural communities still struggling to escape poverty due to corruption and vested interests that hinder progress.
The village of Meat Khla in the Chikreng district of Siem Reap province is one such marginalised community. Founded in 1979 as a floating village, Meat Khla has a population of around 11,734, most of whom make their living from traditional fishing using handmade tools. Over time, pollution, environmental degradation and overfishing have significantly reduced local fish stocks, making livelihoods increasingly uncertain. As household incomes decline, families face difficult choices and often prioritise immediate survival over long-term opportunities such as education. These pressures are reflected in the enrolment figures at Meat Khla Primary School. Although the school currently teaches 225 pupils and employs six teachers, many children drop out after the 5th or 6th grade to support their families. 
The physical learning environment also contributes to the absenteeism rate. The school consists of two buildings, constructed in 2002 and 2007. One has already collapsed into the water, and the remaining building is severely dilapidated. Overcrowding in this unsafe building puts both students and teachers at risk on a daily basis. Sanitary conditions are also inadequate, with only four functioning toilets available for more than 200 people, contributing to poor hygiene, discomfort and lower attendance. All these factors undermine children's right to a safe and high-quality education and limit the community's ability to break the cycle of poverty.
To address these urgent issues, we propose the construction of two new school buildings with six fully equipped classrooms and eight hygienic toilets. This investment will create a safe and resilient learning environment and help reopen educational opportunities for children in the village of Meat Khla, enabling them to continue attending school and develop a lifelong love of learning.