The Ponheary Ly Foundation (PLF) continues to make strides in educational equity through its impactful learning interventions in rural Cambodia. A recent update from their program in Preah Vihear reveals how focused support for Grade 6 boys is helping close the gender gap in education, particularly at the Srayang Learning Center. With economic and social pressures often pulling boys out of school, PLF’s approach provides a replicable model for schools and organizations across Cambodia.
Addressing the Dropout Crisis Among Boys
According to PLF, boys in rural areas are increasingly at risk of dropping out by the time they reach Grade 6. Many begin to fall behind academically, and without support, they disengage from learning altogether. This trend widened during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a gender gap on the entrance exams for secondary school at the Srayang Learning Center—a critical gateway for students transitioning from village primaries to further education.
To address this issue, PLF introduced remedial Khmer and math classes specifically designed for Grade 6 boys. These sessions help students catch up academically, increasing their chances of advancing into secondary school and reducing dropout rates. The strategy targets a known problem with a data-informed solution, setting a clear example for educators and nonprofits in Cambodia and beyond.
Results: Boys Leveling Up With Girls in 2024
One of the most encouraging outcomes of the PLF intervention is the narrowing gender gap on the entrance exams in 2024. For the first time since COVID-19 disruptions, the number of boys qualifying for secondary education at Srayang matched that of girls. This milestone means more male students are now entering the Srayang Learning Center and continuing their education beyond the village level—a significant win for education equity in rural Cambodia.
These efforts demonstrate that when schools and foundations invest in tailored, student-centered support, long-standing educational challenges like gender disparities can be overcome. PLF’s success also shows the importance of early intervention and flexible program design to accommodate learning losses.
Implications for Education in Cambodia
The work of the Ponheary Ly Foundation offers valuable insights for school administrators, NGOs, and policymakers. Cambodia continues to face challenges in education accessibility, particularly in rural provinces. The success of PLF’s Grade 6 remediation classes shows that targeted academic interventions, coupled with community engagement, can change outcomes for vulnerable students.
Schools and education advocates in Cambodia can take inspiration from this model—combining assessment, localized teaching strategies, and clear pathways to secondary school.
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