Cambodia Investment Review
In a significant development for Cambodia’s education sector, De Montfort University (DMU), a distinguished UK-based institution with over 150 years of history, officially opened its first campus in the country on 8 August 2024. The event, which was presided over by Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia, underscores the ongoing investment in Cambodia’s rapidly growing education sector and highlights the Cambodian government’s commitment to expanding higher education opportunities within the country.
De Montfort University Cambodia, located in Koh Pich, Phnom Penh, represents the first British university to establish a physical presence in Cambodia. This expansion is seen as a crucial step in broadening access to international education for Cambodian students, allowing them to pursue UK degrees without leaving their home country. The opening of this campus reflects the increasing investment in education as a key pillar of Cambodia’s economic development strategy, aiming to equip the nation’s youth with the skills necessary for sustained growth.
British Contribution To Cambodia’s Continued Development
In his address at the opening ceremony, British Ambassador to Cambodia, Dominic Williams MBE, expressed his enthusiasm for the university’s expansion into Cambodia. “I am delighted that De Montfort University has opened a campus in Cambodia. I see this as a significant British contribution to Cambodia’s continued development,” said Williams. He emphasized the potential impact on Cambodian youth, noting, “DMU Cambodia will ensure that more Cambodian young people are able to access a world-class education and develop the skills needed to sustain Cambodia’s impressive rates of economic growth.”
Williams also highlighted the broader implications of DMU’s presence in Cambodia. “With the addition of DMU to the British education family in Cambodia, it’s now possible for Cambodian young people to study in a UK institution, right here in Cambodia, from early years through to post-graduate level,” he added. This development, according to Williams, offers a unique opportunity for students to receive a high-quality education while staying connected to their families and the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia.
Sakina Zafar, Executive President of DMU Cambodia, also shared her excitement during the event. She expressed gratitude towards the Prime Minister for his inspiring address, which underscored the critical role of education in developing human capital in Cambodia. “We are excited to welcome our first undergraduate and postgraduate students. For the first time, they will be able to study locally for a UK degree at a British University campus, benefiting from the globally recognized advantages of receiving a UK university education,” Zafar remarked.
International Academic Team Adhering To UK Academic Standards
The new campus will offer a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including degrees in Finance, Business, Information Technology, and a Global MBA. These programs will be taught by an international academic team adhering to UK academic standards. Upon successful completion, students will receive their degrees awarded by DMU in the UK.
Zafar also emphasized the international learning experience that DMU Cambodia will offer, thanks to DMU’s global campus network. “Combined with DMU’s global campus network opportunities, our students will benefit from a truly international learning experience. We look forward to being part of their educational journey and supporting them to fulfill their potential,” she added.
The university’s commitment to sustainability and quality education is reflected in its recent accolades. DMU was rated as a 5-star ‘excellent’ institution by QS, joining 13 other UK universities and just over 100 universities worldwide in receiving this recognition. Additionally, DMU ranks among the top 20 universities globally for sustainability and is the only UK university to be designated as a global hub for a Sustainable Development Goal by the United Nations.
Modern Facilities Aimed At Fostering A Conducive Learning Environment
Postgraduate classes at DMU Cambodia are set to begin on 7 October 2024, with undergraduate classes starting on 14 October 2024. The university has designed its campus with modern facilities aimed at fostering a conducive learning environment, including areas for study, interaction, relaxation, and collaboration.
Admissions are currently open for the 2024 academic year, with a range of scholarships available to support students. Moreover, after completing one year of study at DMU Cambodia, students will have the option to continue their education at DMU’s main campus in the UK or any of its other global campuses.
As Cambodia continues its rapid economic development, the establishment of DMU Cambodia is poised to play a crucial role in enhancing the country’s educational landscape, providing Cambodian students with greater access to high-quality, internationally recognized education within their own borders. The opening of this campus also serves as a testament to the growing investment in Cambodia’s education sector, a key driver for the nation’s long-term economic and social progress.
