WHAT WE DO
CEDO is dedicated to providing scholarships for university students from poor rural areas of Siem Reap province. In addition to offering scholarships, CEDO aims to facilitate finding sponsors, receiving donations, recruiting volunteers, and showcasing students' successes. The organization's website will serve as a platform to inform about these services and initiatives.
We believe that every student, regardless of their background, has the potential
to succeed and make a positive impact in the world.
1. University Scholarship Program
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Since 2018, the Scholarship for University Students has provided 67 scholarships to financially disadvantaged rural students. Our scholars come primarily from the different areas of Siem Reap province. CEDO’s scholarship is unique because it includes more than the cost of studies. Scholarship students are provided 4 years of study in the university degree program or vocational schools, preparing them to achieve their goals. Scholars also receive a bicycle, computer access, 2 years of living allowance, and healthcare until they obtain jobs. Lastly, all first-year scholars attend our Learning Center Program giving them extensive academic, professional, and interpersonal skills.
CEDO scholarships differ from traditional programs because we equip young people with the foundational skills to pursue the careers of their choice. Our scholars have gone on to work as teachers, accountants, lawyers, school principals, nurses, midwives, and careers in the bank, among other professions.
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​Case study:
“I received a CEDO scholarship in 2015, which allowed me to attend Pannasastra University Cambodia (PUC), where I earned a degree in International Relations. During my first year, I also attended CEDO’s Learning Center, gaining valuable skills in English, soft skills, and computer programs that complemented my university studies.
The program inspired me to give back to my community. I’ve participated in tree planting with Youth of Cambodia and shared motivational talks with high school students to encourage them to continue their studies.
I am currently working with a Cambodian non-profit, providing emotional support and educational workshops to underprivileged communities.” — Ms. Mam Mob
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2. Learning Center Program
Our Learning Center Program gives youth from our Scholarship Program the tools to obtain skilled employment in their chosen careers. The Learning Center core courses are based on the most recent National Employment Agency survey. The survey revealed that soft skills, English language, and IT are severely lacking in applicants according to employers. Before coming to the center, our youth have little to no access to technology and very limited English-speaking skills.
Today, the Learning Center Program annually provides 30 students (first and second-year CEDO scholars) with training that go beyond their university/vocational classes. Our program courses work in concert to increase their confidence in both hard and soft skills.
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English Learning Project: Our English classes go beyond the textbook curriculum to provide youth with practical English speaking and writing skills. Including creative writing, practicing conversation skills, and the opportunity to learn accents and phrasing from experienced international teaching volunteers.
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Information Communication Technologies (ICT) Project: Communicating through and using technology is so important for youth in our community to secure jobs. In our IT classes, our students learn industry-standard software applications, including Microsoft Office, Google Docs, and graphic design in preparation for future employment.
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Youth Empowerment Project: Our project builds soft skills youth need to succeed in life and in their future career. We develop youths’ confidence, communication, leadership, problem-solving, etc. Furthermore, students learn about world issues, participate in sports, compete in public speaking contests, and partake in various engaging activities. As a result, our students can realize their potential through our activities and by supporting each other.
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Case study:
“A year with CEDO’s studying soft-skill classes undoubtedly enhanced my leadership skills, confidence, and problem-solving abilities when applying for a job. When I first started in the Learning Center, I was afraid to talk in front of many people and lack of confidence. Then, after a year, I realized that I work collaboratively in a team and talk more, good communication, and have a better relationship with my friends and classmates.” - Sorn Kimsa