project cambodia

our second school

In Cambodia, an estimated 40% of the total population of 14 million is under the age of 18. Given the country’s relatively young population, education plays a pivotal role in its development. In a typical public school, two class sessions are held daily; a child attends school either in the morning or afternoon for four hours per day. High demand for education is partly due to the Cambodian government’s promise of providing free education. Although many attend school, according to recent reports, only 74% of the total population is literate with an even lower literacy rate of 64% for females.

source: United Nations Children's Fund (2000-2004)

In conjunction with American Assistance for Cambodia, a nonprofit organization that has overseen the construction of over 300 schools in Cambodia, Global Playground will build a five-classroom school for middle school students in the country’s Kandal Province. Global Playground will contribute $13,500 to the project; the Asian Development Bank will contribute the remainder in matching funds. Once completed, the school will be sustained by the Cambodian Ministry of Education.

Learn more about American Assistance for Cambodia...
Learn more about the Asian Development Bank...

the state of education

In recent years, most parts of Southeast Asia have experienced rapid development. Although development continues, AIDS, child trafficking, and extreme poverty continue to hamper the region’s growth. Cambodia, in particular, suffers from extreme poverty. Nearly one in every two children show signs of malnourishment. Thailand serves as a hub, home to children who are trafficked from neighboring countries including Burma, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

In Southeast Asia, education remains one of the most effective means of combating these problems. Yet, various barriers prevent children, especially those living rural areas, from attending school. These barriers include a limited number of rural schools, poor roads, lack of transportation, undrinkable water, and few dormitories. With the support of local governments, local NGOs, and the private sector, it is possible that one day every child will be able to receive an education.

project updates

Here's the very latest on Project Cambodia. Please check here frequently as our plans continue to develop!

November 2007: Project and partnership announced

the golden land

Cambodia's modern culture has its roots in the Khmer Empire, celebrated for its flourishing performing arts and world-renowned temples. Today, Cambodia continues these traditions, once only accessible to royalty, sharing them throughout the country and with a thriving tourist industry.

The Kingdom of Cambodia is a Southeast Asian country of 13 million people whose Khmer dance, architecture, and sculpture are the nation's pride and joy. Civil war and corruption have made growth difficult over the past thirty years, but an influx of assistance from organizations such as the Asian Development Bank are helping to provide much-needed infrastructure.

Did you know?
Angkor Wat is the largest religious building in the world, and one of the oldest, estimated to have been built in 1200AD. Nearby, the Tonlé Sap is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and expands to over three times its normal size during Cambodia’s rainy season.

Learn more about Cambodia...

help us build it!

We're ready for that challenge and this is where we need your help!