In 2011, Savun and his mother, Say Sun, moved to Phnom Penh in search of a better life and more job opportunities. However, living in the capital city was difficult. Say Sun struggled to find a job that provided them with a reliable source of income, and their family often struggled to make ends meet.

Because of their financial instability, Savun had to stay home and wasn’t able to attend school. However, in 2012, he met a social worker from ISF Cambodia. Having previously finished Grade 2 at a primary school in Kandal Province, he passed ISF’s screening process and was immediately placed in Grade 3 of the catch-up programme.

Now 19-years old, Savun is nearly finished with his high school studies. He plans to pursue a university bachelor’s degree in English and Management and attributes this opportunity to ISF’s support and a second chance at an education.

The recent surge of COVID-19 in Cambodia have introduced a new onslaught of challenges for Savun and his family.

As schools throughout the country have once again shuttered their doors, Savun has pivoted back to online learning. Although it’s not his first time learning virtually, he battles a poor internet connection in his area which makes it difficult for him to keep up when his teacher cuts out.

His mother, Say Sun, who now owns a laundry shop and works as a part-time housekeeper, has lost nearly half of her income and the family has had to take out a loan to help pay for their necessary expenses. Coupled with the obstacles of virtual learning, Savun and his family are one of many Cambodian families impacted by the current crisis.

Savun refuses to be demoralized by the pandemic. With ISF’s support, he’s implemented lessons and skills learned during the first COVID-19 outbreak, has increased his productivity when watching real-time video lectures and independently completes research and exercises shared via group chat. His family also receives a monthly food parcel to alleviate some of the financial challenges and provide additional nutritional support. 

Savun and his family reiterate how grateful they are for ISF’s support during this difficult time. He reminds everyone to do their part in preventing COVID-19’s spread by adhering to the guidelines, practising physical distancing, wearing a face mask, and diligently washing their hands.