Cambodian Opposition Protest: Paris Peace Accords Violated

Say Mony, VOA Khmer

23 Oct 2013

Cambodian Opposition Protest: Paris Peace Accords Violated

Cambodia's opposition is beginning three days of mass demonstrations in the capital to call for the government to allow an independent probe into alleged fraud in the country's most recent election. Thousands gathered early Wednesday in Phnom Penh's Freedom Park, where they were met by thousands of riot police. Many Cambodians fear a repeat of last month's opposition protests, during which one protester was killed and several wounded following clashes with police. Say Mony, Phnom Penh.

‘Hungry’ Teachers Need Better Pay, Educator Says

Say Mony, VOA Khmer

17 October 2013

Cambodian school children sit under the shade of tree as they listen to teacher at Trapaing Loeuk primary school in Kampong Speu province.

PHNOM PENH - An increase in teacher salaries and the elimination of administrative corruption are key reforms needed to ensure improved education and competitiveness for Cambodian youths, an educator says. “Some teachers say that with hungry stomaches, they cannot teach,” Pa Chanroeun, a PhD candidate at Charles Stuart University in Australia, told “Hello VOA” on Monday. “So there must be decent salaries for educational personnel, especially teachers.”

Cambodia’s teachers earn about $100 per month, leading many to resort to low-level bribe-taking to make ends meet. The government has said it cannot afford higher wages for more than 112,000 education personnel nationwide.