Our current policy and strategies on information and communication technology (ICT) in the education system earmarks a sensitive challenge of the Cambodian Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS) to reform its delivery services effectively within a new context of universalization.

This educational ICT policy and strategies is a practical path we have chosen to get along well with the world trend of implementing the strategies and the national goals of education for all. Emphasis is also made on the non-formal education, distance education, training of professionals, education quality at upper-secondary education and post-secondary education levels through ICT, which is now becoming a relevant life skill required in a knowledge-based society and a critical tool for building partnership between government institutions, concerned national and international organizations, civil society and communities and legal entities within the private sector as well.

Moreover, this policy also clearly advocates its vivid encouragement and strong support to the use of ICT for the benefits of disadvantaged communities. Valuable insights for the development of such an educational policy giving favours to the establishment of a range of courses for ICT professionals are derived from a number of important documents such as the Strategic Plan for the Poverty Alleviation, the Second National Socio-Economic Development Plan, the Millennium Development Goals and the Education Strategic Plan (ESP) 2004-2008.

In conclusion, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport would like to express its profound gratitude to UNESCO for providing technical and financial assistance to the formulation of this valuable educational ICT policy. My deep appreciation must also go to all of my colleagues and other friends from other concerned institutions, who worked hard in bringing about this policy for the benefits of our Cambodian citizens.

Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport is firmly convinced that this ICT in education policy will certainly contribute to creation of more pools of qualified human resources for Cambodia.

Phnom Penh, 21 January 2005

Kol Pheng, Ph.D.
Senior Minister and Minister of Education, Youth and Sport