SUCCESS & INNOVATION

In the rural village of An Saong commune, Kampong Trabaek district, Prey Veng province, a young boy named Soknov, just 10 years old, has faced significant challenges since birth. Orphaned by his father, who left to start a new family, Soknov lives with his mother, Sao Srey Ra, and his elderly grandmother. The family struggles to make ends meet, relying on the modest income his mother earns from a small grocery store she started in 2021. Earning between $2.50 and $5 per day, she supports three children and her aging mother, making it difficult to provide for Soknov’s education and special needs.

Soknov, a child with disabilities, had previously been enrolled in school but was unable to attend due to his paralysis and the lack of accessibility options. His mother could not afford a wheelchair, and without proper facilities or encouragement, Soknov was confined to crawling at home, feeling isolated and fearful of others. His grandmother cared for him while his mother worked, but his mobility limitations and occasional seizures—occurring twice a year—presented additional challenges.

Everything changed when the Easy2Learn (E2L) project, implemented by KAPE with financial support from ChildFund Cambodia, intervened. The project identified Soknov’s situation through the school director, prompting his mother to enroll him in Grade 1 at Kreul Primary School. The school operates in two shifts, from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, allowing students to receive comprehensive education in Khmer language, mathematics, and science.

With E2L’s support, Soknov gained access to the necessary tools and encouragement to attend school. His mother now accompanies him to school every day, ensuring he can participate alongside his peers. The transformation has been remarkable—he has developed a passion for learning, socializing with classmates, and engaging in school activities with confidence.

Soknov’s perseverance and enthusiasm for education have grown significantly. He proudly states, “I am very happy to be in school like the other children. I want to become a phone salesman and a repair specialist because it is something I can do. I am committed to studying hard and achieving good results.”

His teachers and school director have also noted the positive impact of the E2L intervention. “Soknov is motivated and now has the opportunity to study like other students. He is no longer afraid or ashamed as he was in the past. He attends school regularly, and if the project had not supported him, he would not have been able to come properly,” said Mr. Vaon Hoeun, the Director of Kreul Primary School.

His grandmother, Mrs. Prak Pheap, beaming with pride, shared, “Before, my grandson could not read or write, but now he can. He is improving every day.”

As the E2L project nears its conclusion, Soknov’s mother remains dedicated to ensuring her son’s education continues. “Even though the project will end soon, I am committed to selling goods to support my son’s education as much as I can,” she says, seated in her small grocery store.

E2L project officer Mr. Men Thy emphasizes the broader impact of inclusive education, stating, “Providing full access to education for children with disabilities is an opportunity for them to have a better life.”

For over two decades, KAPE has been committed to transforming the lives of children and youth through quality education programs. The agency has worked tirelessly to enhance the skills of teachers and school directors, integrate inclusive education, and ensure that children with disabilities receive the encouragement and support they need. Collaborating with ChildFund Cambodia, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports, sub-national governments, schools, and NGOs, KAPE continues to seek development partners to address the pressing needs of children with disabilities.

Through initiatives such as scholarships, provision of learning materials, and healthcare support, KAPE has created significant positive change. Yet, much work remains. Children with disabilities require continuous encouragement—both physically and emotionally—to thrive, study hard, and build hope for a brighter future.

Soknov’s story is a testament to the power of education and community support. From isolation and fear to confidence and ambition, his transformation underscores the importance of inclusive education programs. With continued investment and advocacy, more children like Soknov can overcome barriers, access quality education, and pursue their dreams.

KAPE remains committed to this mission, striving to provide every child—regardless of their circumstances—the chance to learn, grow, and succeed.