Cambodia’s Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport says it is ready to assist Cambodian students currently studying in Thailand to return home and continue their education domestically, should they face discrimination or pressure due to rising tensions along the Cambodian-Thai border.
The ministry’s spokesperson, Khuon Vichheka, said preparations were made following remarks by Senate President Hun Sen, who advised Cambodian students in Thailand to return home if they feel unwelcome or threatened. The ministry, she added, stands prepared to facilitate the transition for any students choosing to continue their studies in Cambodia.
She noted that the ministry is closely coordinating with networks of Cambodian students currently enrolled at various universities across Thailand.
On the morning of June 16, Mr Hun Sen delivered a special message stating that any students returning from Thailand would be eligible for scholarships to pursue their education at institutions within Cambodia. He further pledged personal financial support for tuition fees if the ministry or the government is unable to cover them.
Hun Sen said he had observed concerns raised by some Cambodian students on social media amid the deteriorating situation at the border. He encouraged those who can continue studying in Thailand to do so, but urged those who feel uncomfortable to return and resume their education at home with financial support available.
According to the Ministry of Education, there are currently 1,871 Cambodian students enrolled in Thai institutions. Among them are 11 students pursuing associate degrees, 1,372 undergraduates, 361 postgraduate students, 126 doctoral candidates and one student in a post-bachelor professional program.
Tensions between the two countries have escalated since an armed incident on May 28 in Cambodia’s Preah Vihear province, which resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier. Phnom Penh accused Thai troops of initiating the gunfire.
In response to the dispute, Cambodia has filed a case with the International Court of Justice regarding four contested border areas, including Ta Moan Thom temple, Ta Moan Toch temple, Ta Krabei temple and the region known as “Mom bei”.
