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Official Launch of the Skills Development Programme Phase 3 (2024-2028)

Cambodia
Upskilling and Reskilling, Labour market insertion, Initial vocational education and training
26.12.2024
The Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training and the Skills Development Programme (SDP) officially launched Phase 3 (2024-2028) of the SDP to provide disadvantaged youth in 12 provinces of Cambodia with better skills for a better life.

In a landmark event for Cambodia's skills development landscape, H.E. Heng Sour, Minister of Labour and Vocational Training, and Mr. Christian Volker Ide, SDP Team Leader, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to officially launch the SDP Phase 3. The signing ceremony marked the beginning of a four-year collaboration dedicated to transforming the lives of disadvantaged youth and low-skilled workers throughout the country.

The SDP Phase 3, a project of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and co-funded by the Liechtenstein Development Agency (LED), will run from 2024 to 2028. The programme will be implemented in close collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MoT) to enable disadvantaged young women and men to access decent jobs and improve their incomes. This phase covers 12 provinces: Kratie, Stung Treng, Preah Vihear, Mondulkiri, Ratanakkiri, Pursat, Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Oddar Meanchey, Pailin, Koh Kong and Kampong Chhnang.

Over the next four years, the programme aims to directly impact approximately 10,150 individuals, with women representing 49% of the total beneficiaries. Through practical skills training, employment facilitation, and entrepreneurship support, these participants will gain opportunities to secure stable jobs or start their own businesses, leading to enhanced income and living standards.

"The SDP is an exemplary partnership that demonstrates our shared commitment to human capital development. Phase 3 is an important step in providing disadvantaged individuals, especially young women and men, with the tools they need to succeed in the workforce. Together, we are building a stronger and more inclusive economy."
H.E. Heng Sour, Minister of the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training 
"Skills development is a cornerstone of sustainable development and poverty reduction. The SDC is proud to finance this initiative with LED and to continue our commitment to promoting equal opportunities in Cambodia. Through the SDP Phase 3, we aim to leave a lasting impact on individuals and communities in 12 provinces."
Mr. Reto Grueninger, Director of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC)
"Our focus in this phase is to reach those most in need—disadvantaged youth. By equipping them with market-relevant skills and supporting their integration into the labour market, we are not only transforming lives but also contributing to Cambodia's economic resilience and growth."
Mr. Christian Volker Ide, SDP Team Leader

The programme’s multi-sectoral approach will continue to address skills gaps, promote gender equality, and enhance the employability of thousands of Cambodians. The launch of the SDP Phase 3 underscores the ongoing collaboration between the Royal Government of Cambodia and international development partners in driving human resource development and economic empowerment.

2024 - 2028
Cambodia
Initial vocational education and training, Labour market insertion, Sustainable tourism
Skills Development Programme (SDP)
The overall goal of the Skills Development Programme (SDP) is for disadvantaged young women and men and low-skilled workers in five rural provinces of Cambodia (Preah Vihear, Stung Treng, Kratie, Mondulkiri and Rattanakiri) to gain access to decent employment and increased income. 
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