Working Papers   138

Cambodia’s Aspirations to Become a Knowledge-Based Society: Perspectives of Cambodian University Students

Author(s): HENG Kimkong

Published: 11-May-2023
Keyword: Knowledge-based society, higher education institutions, Cambodian universities, student perspectives, educational challenges
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Abstract/Summary

This study explores Cambodian university students’ perspectives on the country’s aspirations to become a knowledge-based society, a goal aligned with Cambodia’s vision to achieve upper-middle-income status by 2030 and high-income status by 2050. Using qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews with 20 students from public and private universities in Phnom Penh, the research examines students’ understanding of the concept, their views on the role of universities, and their suggestions for achieving this national ambition. Findings reveal that students have varied and limited familiarity with the term “knowledge-based society,” often associating it with education, human resources, and research. While acknowledging recent improvements in higher education, students perceive Cambodian universities’ contributions to be moderate. They emphasize the need for universities to go beyond academic instruction by fostering character development and soft skills. Key recommendations include investing in higher education, increasing enrolment, promoting STEM, enhancing research capacity, expanding internship opportunities, and strengthening stakeholder collaboration. The study highlights the importance of integrating student voices into policy discourse and calls for systemic reforms to empower universities as engines of knowledge creation and innovation in Cambodia’s journey toward a knowledge-based future.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64202/wp.138.202305 




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