Aquaculture and Technical Education: Empowering Young Cambodian Futures
Published: Apr 24, 2025 Reading time: 3 minutes Share: Share an articleAquaculture is an essential in Cambodia’s technical education system; it offers students valuable skills responding to the labor market requirements. By equipping students with practical knowledge, the education system paves the way for students to continue their studies and pursue various career opportunities in this dynamic industry.
At Norodom Sihamoni General Education and Technical High School in Kampong Chhnang province, Mrs. Khun Ratana, an experienced aquatic processing teacher, has been instrumental in shaping the future of students. She has taught a variety of practical processing techniques, including the fermentation and production of traditional Cambodian products such as fermented fish paste (Pangasius paste) and smoked fish. These valuable skills not only deepen the student’s understanding of aquaculture but also help them create value-added products, which can be sold at higher prices, thus improving their financial prospects.
The project has played a crucial role in enhancing the curriculum, blending both theory and practice in key areas such as fish hatchery, fish breeding, and food processing. Our comprehensive approach ensures that the upper secondary technical education in aquaculture aligns with the evolving needs of the market. To further strengthen teaching, the project also provided a "Training of Trainers" programme, to improve the technical skills and teaching methods of educators, enabling them to deliver lessons with a deeper understanding.
While theoretical knowledge is essential, the practical application of that knowledge is even more important. The project has provided the necessary equipment and materials for learning aquatic processing, allowing students to apply their theoretical knowledge to practical tasks directly. Through this hands-on experience, students are better prepared to create and commercialise products, which in turn boosts their confidence and expertise.
With a strong foundation in both aquaculture theory and practical processing techniques, students are now better equipped to continue their education in advanced aquaculture or food technology programme. For those entering the workforce, they can pursue careers in the aquaculture or aquatic processing industries or even start their own businesses.
As Cambodia faces growing demand for sustainable fisheries and high-quality aquatic products, the importance of technical education in aquaculture cannot be overstated. By providing students with both practical and soft skills, aquaculture education is not only helping individuals build successful careers but is also strengthening Cambodia’s economy. The ongoing innovation in fish farming and aquatic product processing creates new opportunities and fosters long-term growth.
This project is funded by Česká rozvojová agentura - CzechAid and the Czech Embassy in Phnom Penh, and implemented by the Vocational Orientation Department of MoEYS Cambodia and People in Need Cambodia.
