We are proud to announce that 35 out of 36 ISF grade 9 students have graduated from lower-secondary school. This achieves Cambodia’s target for children’s basic education of nine years worth of schooling.  All 35 have decided to continue their education and will be supported by ISF as they enter tenth grade.

Another five students completed their high school education. Previously, finishing high school would not have been an option or even a dream for these young people. After reintegrating into the education system, their hard work and determination are making dreams a reality as they consider going to university. In fact, 99% of the state school students we support have passed their final grade exams last August.

Students graduating to state school receive supplies from ISF

This is especially hearting to see in Cambodia, where many drop out before completing secondary school for a number of reasons. About one-third of dropouts and one-fifth of at-risk students state that they were unable to keep up with their lessons with another 20% discouraged by poor academic performance (USAID, 2015). This is especially true at educational milestones like grade 7 and 9 where 40% of Cambodian children drop out. Here are ISF, we strive to counteract these issues with a personalized approach to each child.  Our students are given open access to counselors and social workers that access their mental health and monitor their progress. Also extracurricular activities such as sports and performing arts aim to improve their self-confidence and resilience to setbacks.

Economics also play a major role in children’s’ continued learning. Nearly half of all dropouts in the country say they did so to earn money. To make sure ISF student’s education is sustainable, we offer support to their families and communities. ISF gives uniforms, school materials and, in some cases, bicycles to aid in transportation, to our students. Those, along with access to healthcare and two school meals a day ensure the costs of education do not overwhelm children’s families.

Using these and other approaches our goal is to help build a Cambodia where even the most disadvantaged have access to education which can help lift them cycle of poverty.