Connect to Ireland
Connect to Ireland 2024
In April 2024, six Cambodian educators and community leaders travelled to Ireland for the Connect to Ireland visit. The group included SeeBeyondborders Cambodia staff and the governors of Kralanh and Srei Snam Districts, in Siem Reap province. The group spent two weeks in Ireland, sharing expertise and experiences with local teachers, school leaders, Irish Government representatives and the SeeBeyondBorders Ireland team.
Meet the Connect to Ireland 2024 Participants
TAING IM LOK – BATTAMBANG PROVINCE
Where in Cambodia are you from?
I’m from Battambang, one of the biggest cities in Cambodia.
What made you want to work to improve education in Cambodia?
I’m working in education because I believe that education brings sustainable development.
What made you want to join the Connect visit to Ireland?
I joined the Connect visit in order to learn more on leadership in education benchmarks in person.
What surprised you most?
The most surprising thing to me was that the teachers’ capacity was so impressive and how the Communities of Practice (COP) approach is widely practised in the Education sector.
What have been the greatest challenges?
The weather was freezing to me!
NEL RATANA – ODDAR MEANCHAY PROVINCE
Where in Cambodia are you from?
I’m from Oddar Meanchey Province, in the north of Cambodia, near the Thailand Border.
What made you want to work to improve education in Cambodia?
Education is so important to us in general, and is a way to build for the future.
What made you want to join the Connect visit to Ireland?
It’s a great opportunity to learn how education in Ireland has changed dramatically.
SAMBOR KANG – BATTAMBANG PROVINCE
Where in Cambodia are you from?
I’m from Battambang, in Western Cambodia.
What made you want to work to improve education in Cambodia?
I believe education is the most powerful for people in Cambodia and it can change everything to be better. I want to improve teacher training with support that is essential for enhancing quality teaching and learning, especially in the rural areas.
What made you want to join the Connect visit to Ireland?
I want to learn more about different cultures, education systems and I want to share my experience with other people that work in the education sector.
Most notable thing you’ve learnt about the educational context in Ireland?
Ireland has a relatively early start to formal education, with most children beginning school at age four. Education is also compulsory and free for all children from ages six to sixteen. The curriculum prioritizes a child – centered approach, allowing for flexibility in teaching methods.
What surprised you most?
The most surprising thing for me was that people in Ireland were so kind, helpful with a lovely heart that made me feel like a second home. Moreover, the weather was so different in Cambodia.
