Celebrating Khmer Culture Through Education
The Water Festival at CIA FIRST International School brought together students, teachers, and families in a joyful celebration of Cambodian heritage. Known locally as Bon Om Touk, this national event honors the reversal of the Tonle Sap River and highlights Cambodia’s deep cultural and spiritual connection to water.
Despite rainy weather, the school community came together at the Sen Sok campus for a memorable experience, demonstrating that learning does not pause for the clouds. Instead, students embraced the festivities with enthusiasm, proving that curiosity and culture can thrive under any conditions. The Water Festival CIA FIRST International School celebration became an important opportunity for students to experience Khmer traditions firsthand and strengthen their understanding of Cambodia’s history.
Hands-On Cultural Learning
According to the school’s post, students spent the day exploring traditional crafts, enjoying festive foods, and participating in meaningful activities. Learners experimented with making paper boats, lanterns, and decorated floating offerings. These hands-on experiences helped children connect tradition with creativity, letting them engage their senses while learning.
The event also featured delicious treats like pounded rice, a popular seasonal food shared during Bon Om Touk. These activities allowed students to appreciate Khmer culture in a practical way and discover how traditions bring people together. By giving students the chance to create and taste, the Water Festival CIA FIRST International School celebration fostered cultural pride and community connection.
A Community Celebration
Bon Om Touk is more than an annual holiday—it is a symbol of joy, unity, and gratitude. CIA FIRST International School demonstrated its commitment to honoring Cambodian culture by bringing families and staff together in celebration.
The event allowed students to witness and experience the importance of water in Khmer history and identity. Through colorful decorations, traditional costumes, and student-made crafts, the school environment transformed into a vibrant cultural learning space.
What stood out most is how the community worked together to ensure students learned through participation. Teachers guided activities, families supported the event, and students proudly showcased their creativity. The Water Festival CIA FIRST International School celebration highlighted how cultural learning in schools can promote inclusion, pride, and shared understanding.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
By creating cultural celebrations for students, CIA FIRST International School demonstrated the importance of integrating Khmer heritage into modern education. Events like this strengthen community bonds and help children value cultural identity while learning in a meaningful way.
Hands-on learning gives students the opportunity to explore traditions rather than just read about them. Whether folding paper boats, decorating offerings, or enjoying festive snacks, students gained experiences that support both cognitive and cultural development.
The Water Festival CIA FIRST International School celebration serves as a model for schools across Cambodia. When students experience tradition through activity, they build stronger connections to their history and become more engaged learners.
If the information about the school is not accurate or insufficient, please Contact us
Do you want to register your school? Click Here



Leave A Comment