An article from Sarah Gosper, Rotary Melbourne
Rotary’s continuing partnership with its valued partner, Empowering Youth Cambodia (EYC), is delivering the High School and University Scholarship Program in the slum districts of Phnom Penh.
A four-day visit early in 2026 to Cambodia by Project Leader, David Hayes where he toured the three schools currently supported through the scholarship program; Lake Side Central School, Axiza, and Youth School, showed the success and ongoing relevance of this important initiative.
This life-changing project currently provides financial assistance to 87 vulnerable children, enabling them to complete their high school education through EYC and selected private schools in Cambodia. In addition, four students with strong academic potential are being supported to undertake university study.
Students selected for scholarships come from economically disadvantaged family backgrounds, demonstrate strong academic performance, and have distinguished themselves within EYC schools through both achievement and leadership potential. EYC provides partial scholarships, with families expected to contribute to the remaining costs wherever possible.
A key strength of the program is the involvement of local social workers, who work closely with students and their families to help address the social and economic barriers that have previously prevented access to quality education.
As a result of detailed discussions during the visit, it was agreed to increase the number of Year 12 scholarship recipients by an additional 20 students, bringing the total number of high school scholarship students to 87. This decision reflects growing concern around the pressures faced by Year 12 students, including family expectations and the influence of social media, which often encourage young people to leave school early to seek paid work, contributing to higher dropout rates at this critical stage.
David is pleased to report that the project is being exceptionally well managed by a capable and committed team, delivering vital educational opportunities to students who would otherwise be unable to complete their studies. The impact of this work extends well beyond the individual students, creating lasting benefits for their families and future generations.