Pchum Ben, one of Cambodia’s most significant religious festivals, is a time when families honor their ancestors by offering food, particularly sticky rice cakes, to monks. Beyond its spiritual roots, the festival serves as an important cultural reminder for younger generations. At Singapore Cambodia International Academy (SCIA), this year’s Pchum Ben was not only observed but transformed into a meaningful educational experience for students.
A Classroom Celebration of Heritage
In line with its vision of holistic education, SCIA encouraged students to take part in classroom activities centered on Cambodian traditions. The highlight was the making of Baay Ben, the symbolic sticky rice offering. By recreating these offerings in their own way, students were able to connect with cultural practices while engaging in hands-on learning.
This approach brought the festival alive in the classroom. Instead of simply reading about traditions, the children actively participated, deepening their understanding of both the cultural and spiritual significance of Pchum Ben.
Education Beyond the Textbook
SCIA’s initiative reflects its philosophy of going beyond the classroom to provide meaningful, real-world learning. Festivals like Pchum Ben offer natural opportunities for students to learn about history, community values, and cultural identity. By incorporating such experiences into school life, students gain lessons in respect, empathy, and belonging that are as essential as academic knowledge.
The activity also encouraged collaboration and creativity. Students worked together, shared ideas, and expressed themselves through their versions of the Baay Ben. These exercises strengthened not only cultural knowledge but also teamwork and social-emotional development.
Building a Global and Local Perspective
While SCIA is known for its Cambridge-based curriculum and focus on academic excellence, it also recognizes the importance of grounding students in Cambodian traditions. For families in Phnom Penh, this balance between global learning and local heritage is highly valuable. Students develop the ability to thrive in an international academic environment while staying connected to the values and customs of Cambodia.
By integrating cultural education into its broader curriculum, SCIA helps shape well-rounded learners who appreciate their roots while being prepared for global opportunities.
A Holistic Learning Environment
SCIA’s celebration of Pchum Ben highlights the school’s dedication to holistic education—an approach that nurtures academic skills, character, and cultural awareness. Such initiatives show how schools in Cambodia can creatively blend tradition with modern teaching practices, ensuring that students learn not only how to excel academically but also how to respect and carry forward cultural heritage.
This balance is especially important in today’s interconnected world, where cultural identity can sometimes be overshadowed by global influences. Schools like SCIA remind us that education is not just about passing exams but also about fostering a sense of identity and belonging in young learners.
Conclusion
The Pchum Ben celebration at Singapore Cambodia International Academy was more than a festive event; it was a lesson in heritage, creativity, and collaboration. By engaging students in meaningful cultural activities, SCIA continues to stand out as a school that values both academic excellence and cultural connection.
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