Are Teachers Catalysts of Cambodia's AI Transformation?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Teachers are fundamental to AI transformation in Cambodia.
- The government emphasizes digital transformation as a pillar of sustainable growth.
- AI can enhance personalized learning experiences.
- Support for teacher development is key to leveraging technology.
- Innovative projects in AI education are being showcased.
Phnom Penh, Oct 5 (NationPress) Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated on Sunday that teachers are pivotal to the transformation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Southeast Asian nation.
In a statement shared on his official social media on the occasion of World Teachers' Day, Hun Manet emphasized that Cambodia recognizes this day under the national theme of "Teachers as catalysts of AI transformation."
"This theme highlights the essential role educators play in equipping students to thrive in a future increasingly influenced by AI," he noted.
"This aligns with Cambodia's national vision outlined in its Pentagonal Strategy -- Phase I, where human development and digital transformation are identified as foundational pillars for the country's sustainable growth," he added.
Minister of Education, Youth and Sport, Hang Chuon Naron, remarked that the integration of AI into education will enhance teachers' abilities to revolutionize learning, according to the Xinhua news agency.
"By providing teachers with the skills to effectively utilize digital technology and AI, we empower them to create new learning opportunities and develop the next generation of innovators and leaders in a fast-changing world," he stated in a press release on World Teachers' Day.
"Teachers can leverage AI to design lesson plans and offer personalized learning experiences for students," Naron continued.
Esther McFarlane, chief of education at UNESCO in Phnom Penh, mentioned that teachers are not only adjusting to emerging technologies but are also influencing how these tools are utilized to inspire and empower learners to think critically and creatively about the societal challenges and opportunities they will encounter.
"As AI transforms education, it is vital that new technologies enhance and empower teachers, rather than replace them," she asserted.
"Investing in mentorship, research, and professional development for teachers ensures they remain at the forefront of this evolving landscape," she added.
During the celebration, a two-day exhibition titled "Utilizing AI Technology in Education" took place at the National Institute of Education in Phnom Penh, displaying approximately 50 projects related to AI developed by 14 institutions, as reported by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport.