According to andyeducation, Cambodia has a long and varied history of educational systems, with a variety of approaches to learning and teaching. The country’s current educational system is based on the French model, which was introduced in the late 19th century. This system is organized into four levels: primary school (grades 1-6), lower secondary school (grades 7-9), upper secondary school (grades 10-12) and higher education (universities). At the primary level, education is compulsory for all children between the ages of 5 and 14. Primary schools emphasize reading, writing and arithmetic, as well as basic knowledge of history and geography. There are also some schools that specialize in teaching music or art. At lower secondary level, students are required to take courses in mathematics, science, language arts, social science, physical education and health. Additionally, they may choose elective courses such as music or art. In upper secondary school students can specialize in one or two areas of study such as mathematics or sciences while still taking other core courses such as language arts and physical education. In addition to these formal educational institutions there are also numerous informal learning opportunities available throughout Cambodia such as vocational training centers or adult literacy classes offered by local NGOs or international organizations. These programs help individuals gain skills that can be used to find employment opportunities or further their education at university level. Higher education institutions in Cambodia include both public universities managed by the government and private universities run by various organizations including religious groups or businesses. Most universities offer degrees in sciences, engineering, law, economics and business administration as well as humanities subjects such as literature and philosophy. Additionally there are also specialized universities offering degrees in fields such as medicine or architecture depending on their area of expertise. Overall Cambodia has made significant progress towards providing access to quality education for all its citizens regardless of their socio-economic background or geographical location within the country. Through a combination of formal educational institutions supported by government funding initiatives combined with private sector investment it is hoped that future generations will be able to benefit from improved educational outcomes leading them onto successful futures filled with potential opportunities they would otherwise not have had access too before now. See educationvv for Cambodia educational systems.
