Cambodia Proposes Extending Public School Hours
Prime Minister Hun Manet has announced that Cambodia is evaluating a plan to increase daily public school instruction from four to six hours.
Proposed Educational Reform in Cambodia
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet recently announced that the government is considering a significant shift in the national education system. During an address to high-achieving students in Phnom Penh on October 28, 2026, the Prime Minister revealed plans to extend daily public school hours from four to six.
Focus on Core Subjects
The proposed additional two hours of instruction would be specifically dedicated to strengthening students' proficiency in the Khmer language and mathematics. According to the Prime Minister, the current four-hour schedule was a temporary measure necessitated by historical shortages of qualified teachers and available classroom facilities.
Implications and Outlook
For residents and expatriates living in the region, this potential policy shift highlights the Cambodian government's ongoing efforts to address educational infrastructure challenges. While the proposal aims to improve academic outcomes, it remains to be confirmed how the Ministry of Education will manage the logistical requirements, such as teacher recruitment and facility expansion, to support a longer school day. As of now, the plan is under consideration, and further details regarding the implementation timeline or potential impacts on school calendars have not been finalized. Observers are waiting for official updates from the Cambodian Ministry of Education regarding the feasibility and rollout of this extended schedule.
