Improve the future for over 150 Cambodia Children

In this quarter, Dolphin School in Kratie province, Cambodia, is fortunate to have a dedicated team comprising 9 Khmer teachers and 3 foreign volunteers. Together, they are actively involved in the education of 119 underprivileged children.

As part of their commitment to the well-being of these students, the school recently organized a special food distribution event for all 130 children. The menu featured a variety of items, including curry, bread, watermelons, honey jackfruits, jicamas, and drinking water. Before enjoying the nutritious meal, the children engaged in traditional games, adding a playful and communal element to the event. This initiative not only focuses on education but also underscores the school's commitment to the holistic development and happiness of the students.

Chanchhay, an 11-year-old student enrolled in Level 1 at Dolphin School, resides with her family, consisting of four siblings, in Kantring village, Sangkat Orrusey, Kratie province. She is identified as one of the slower learners in her class. Due to challenging family circumstances, she had to discontinue her studies for a year. Her parents, who work as farmers, are burdened with debt, making it challenging for them to financially support their children's education. Furthermore, they lack an understanding of the importance of education. Despite these obstacles, Chanchhay recently re-enrolled in our school this month.

The family's financial struggles contribute to irregular school attendance among their children. Chanchhay explained that she often assists her parents with work, making it difficult for her to attend school regularly. Even though the teachers consistently encouraged her return, her frequent absences made it challenging for her to keep up with the curriculum. The teachers expressed a desire to visit her home once or twice a month, but Chanchhay's busy schedule, assisting her parents, made these visits difficult. Feeling embarrassed attending class only a few days a week, she also found it challenging to face her peers at school.

Davy, a 12-year-old student currently enrolled in Level 1 at Dolphin School, resides with her parents in Orrusey 1 village, Sangkat Orrusey, Kratie province. Identified as one of the underprivileged students at the school, Davy faced significant challenges that led to her discontinuing her education for over a year. During this period, her language skills became largely forgotten.

Her parents, initially not placing a high value on education for the younger generation, believed it was more crucial for Davy to contribute to the family's income. This made it difficult for her to focus on her studies. After multiple consultations with the school's teachers, her parents eventually recognized the importance of education and decided to re-enroll Davy in Dolphin School. This marks a positive step toward providing her with the opportunity for continued learning and development.