Together in Cambodia

In the past decade Cambodia has made good progress in reducing acute poverty – around 20% of the population now live in this state. However, the consequences of COVID and climate change have caused additional challenges. Unsurprisingly, children are most affected; with malnutrition, limited access to healthcare, and inequalities in educational access and attainment for children with disabilities and those living in remote regions.

Since the reintroduction of the Catholic Church – following the devasting civil war and rule of the Khmer Rouge – parishes across Cambodia have been instrumental in promoting education. Missio, and it’s children branch Mission Together, have assisted in the funding of scholarships, student hostels, and kindergartens. As only 37% of children attend kindergartens, due in the main to the limited free state provision, the Church recognised the need to invest especially in free early years education.

Sacred Heart kindergarten was established in 2019 by Fr Paul, a missionary from Thailand. As Catholics make up just 0.3% of the population, most of its pupils are from Buddhist families. Unlike state kindergartens which provide just 90 minutes free schooling per day, parish kindergartens like Sacred Heart open and close around local factories, to support working parents and ensure their children don’t miss out on vital early years education. Parish kindergartens are funded by parental contributions, donations from Cambodian Catholics, and support from our global Catholic Church family.

It is clear to see Catholic Social Teaching in practice at Sacred Heart. Our Together in Cambodia assembly highlights notable CST themes: Human Dignity, Solidarity, Stewardship, Dignity of Work, and Community and Participation. The assembly is also accompanied by a short film (see below), CST discussion questions, activities, and CST Principle prayers.