Cambodia Basic Education Improvement Project

active

The proposed project aims to enhance student learning outcomes in primary education. The definition of ‘minimum proficiency’ in reading and math will be aligned with the Global Proficiency Framework definition of minimum proficiency level in math at grade 3 and consistent with SDG 4.1.1a. The project includes three main components.The first component aims to enhance children's primary school readiness and address sectoral issues. It will develop cost-effective early childcare services using models from the Community-based Childcare for Garment Factory Workers Project. The project will also establish public preschool classes in high-demand areas. To improve ECE service quality, teachers will receive training to implement the revised play-based ECE curriculum. Additionally, the project will promote parental education through awareness campaigns aligned with the new curriculum.The second component focuses on providing targeted support to directly enhance the learning outcomes of primary school students. Key activities include (1) introducing the "Teaching at the Right Level" (TaRL) approach, (2) implementing early grade learning programs, which consist of four core activities: scripted lesson plans, initial teacher training on how to use these scripts and new materials, development and distribution of necessary teaching and learning materials, and ongoing mentoring support to teachers by core mentors; and (3) improving the learning environment by financing the construction of additional classrooms in overcrowded schools and providing necessary facilities and equipment, such as digital tools, library books, and multi-purpose rooms.The third component aims to enhance MoEYS's capacity to plan, manage, and monitor its workforce in education service delivery. The proposed key activities include: (a) conducting preparatory work to support the analysis of existing systems used for providing data and policies for education staff management, to scope the meaningful activities, and map the key functions/modules; (b) modernizing HRMIS to improve data recording and availability for education staff management, focusing on teacher’s distribution, and teacher’s continuous professional development and career progression; and (c) strengthening the capacity of MoEYS officials to operate the modernized HRMIS. This investment will complement national reforms and ensure the project's sustainable impact.