Through a generous donation from Syed Balkhi we are able to build the 10th CVF school in Prey Touch Commune – in the village called Prean Nil. This community has long been waiting for an investment in their school and children’s education. There are 163 students and 6 teachers at this school. By the end of 2024, they will have a new 3-classroom school building.
Prean Nil village is several miles off the main road. Leading to the school is a dusty unpaved road, flanked by simple houses made of wood, bamboo, thatch, and palm leaves. The families living here grow rice, vegetables and fruit to sustain themselves. Water is often sourced from wells, or rain. A few chickens roam around the houses scratching in the hard, dry soil. Children run around with bare feet.
When the Prean Nil community was chosen to get new classrooms for their Primary school, 20 years of hoping, longing, and asking finally paid off. Listen to Mr. Nov Dy, principal of the school, express his appreciation.
Imagine the anticipation, joy and gratitude when the ground breaking ceremony was finally prepared and took place. We had the privilege to attend the festive ceremony as the guests of honor.
In Cambodia, a groundbreaking ceremony typically involves a mix of traditional customs, cultural rituals, and modern practices.
At a Cambodian ground breaking ceremony offerings such as fruits, flowers, incense, and symbolic items are presented to honor ancestors and spirits believed to inhabit the land, seeking their blessings and goodwill for the construction endeavor.
Local leaders, officials and community members deliver speeches acknowledging the significance of the project, expressing gratitude to those involved, and rallying support for its success.
Bill, Nancy, Darren and Silke – visitors and honored guests – along with dignitaries, community leaders and representatives from the construction team, used shovels to officially mark the beginning of construction. This symbolized the start of a new chapter for the community.
How does a nice school environment inspire learning?
A nice school environment inspires learning in several profound ways.
There is the sense of belonging and the motivation to sit in bright, clean, and well-organized classrooms. For children from these poor communities a nice school can be a place of reduced stress. A calm, clean and inviting atmosphere helps students and teachers alike. Children are better able to focus their attention and energy on learning.
A proper school environment also boosts teacher morale and motivation. When teachers feel valued and supported in their work, they are more likely to be enthusiastic and passionate educators, inspiring their students to strive for excellence.
Creative and inspiring surroundings can ignite students’ imagination and fuel their passion for learning. We have seen teachers and communities create colorful artwork and display motivational quotes to design a stimulating environment that encourages students to think creatively and explore new ideas.
As we have observed over the past 18 years working in the Prey Touch Commune, when we give a helping hand and seed money – or in this case a new school building – it inspires the entire community. Teachers find ways to raise small amounts of money for everyday school supplies. People in the community start to see value in their school and education and before long, they begin to take pride in it.
You donations bring children in Prey Touch Commune better access to learning and opportunities for a brighter future.
