Education for 300 Urban Poor Children

Breaking Silence, Building Dreams

Kunthea was born on February 22, 2012, in Kamrieng Village, Sena Reach Otdam Commune, Preah Sdach District. Now 14 years old, she is a Grade 8 student at Krosang Char Secondary School. Despite her young age, Kunthea carries significant responsibility in her family. She lives with her elderly grandmother, her younger sister Theary, and her brother Makara. As the eldest child in a family of seven, her role is especially important. Kunthea’s family faces many challenges. Her parents are divorced, and her father left the family to start a new life with another wife. Her mother works in a factory in Phnom Penh, leaving Kunthea and her siblings in the care of their grandmother. They live together in a small, old house, where daily life is often difficult. Despite these hardships, Kunthea remains committed to her education and determined to build a better future.

On March 20, 2026, Kunthea shared her personal journey and the struggles she has faced in her studies. A few years ago, she was known as a very quiet and shy girl who often sat at the back of the classroom. While other students actively participated, Kunthea avoided eye contact and rarely spoke. She lacked confidence and was afraid of making mistakes. Learning was not easy for her. She struggled to understand lessons, especially when teachers moved quickly through difficult subjects. When she did not understand something, she felt too shy to ask questions. At home, she would spend long hours looking at her books, feeling confused and discouraged. Over time, she began to believe that she was not as capable as her classmates.

Everything began to change when one of her teachers noticed her silence and difficulties. Instead of overlooking her, the teacher offered gentle encouragement and created a safe space for her to express herself. At first, Kunthea spoke very softly and hesitantly, but her teacher remained patient and supportive. She praised Kunthea’s small efforts and reminded her that making mistakes is a natural part of learning. Gradually, Kunthea started to gain confidence. She began asking simple questions in class and participating more actively. Each small step helped her grow stronger. She also improved her study habits by reviewing lessons regularly, practicing exercises, and seeking help when needed. Although her progress was slow, it was steady and meaningful.

A major turning point in Kunthea’s life came in July 2021, when her family was selected to participate in the School Development Program run by Sunshine Cambodia Organization. Through this program, she received essential school supplies each academic year, including books, pens, pencils, and rulers. Her family also benefited from regular food support such as rice, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and milk. This assistance greatly improved both her learning environment and her family’s overall living conditions. By easing the financial burden on her household, Kunthea was able to concentrate more fully on her studies. In addition to material support, program staff made regular home visits, during which they encouraged her to stay committed to her education and raised awareness about the importance of education, children’s rights, child protection, participation, and proper hygiene. Kunthea also shared her happiness with a smile: “I am very happy that my grandmother and teachers always encourage me, especially the staff from Sunshine Cambodia Organization. They taught me how important education is for my future.” Her teacher, Ms. Sinat, observed a remarkable transformation in Kunthea: “From a quiet and uncertain girl, Kunthea has grown into a brave and hardworking student with a clear goal for her future. Her journey was not easy, but it taught her that courage is not the absence of fear—it is the decision to keep going despite it.” Today, Kunthea is no longer the silent girl in the back of the classroom. She is more confident, engaged, and determined. Step by step, she continues to move forward, guided by her dream of becoming a teacher in the future.