Embassy of India
Phnom Penh

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Press Release

Inauguration ceremony of the QIP “Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in Schools in Prey Veng Province”

The Embassy of India in Cambodia is pleased to announce the successful inauguration of a Quick Impact Project (QIP) “Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene in Schools in Prey Veng Province”, held on July 25, 2024, in Prey Veng Province. The ceremony was graced by the presence of H.E. Ambassador Dr. Devyani Khobragade and H.E. Kim Sethany, Permanent Secretary of State, Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport, Kingdom of Cambodia, H.E. Dr. Chhay Kim Sotheavy, Director of Health Education Department and Director of Prey Veng Provincial Department of Education, Youth and Sport.

This initiative, funded by the Government of India, has seen the construction of modern toilets equipped with handwashing facilities in four schools in Prey Veng Province. These facilities are crucial in promoting proper hygiene practices among students and teachers, thereby contributing to a healthier learning environment and reducing absenteeism due to preventable illnesses.

The project builds upon India's longstanding commitment to supporting Cambodia's development goals, particularly in the sectors of education and public health. In the past, the Indian Embassy has successfully implemented similar projects in other provinces, impacting twelve schools and fostering sustainable practices in hygiene and sanitation.

In her remarks at the inauguration ceremony, Ambassador Dr. Devyani Khobragade emphasized the importance of these projects in enhancing the quality of education and ensuring the well-being of students. She also announced two new projects in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport. The first project aims to improve Water, Sanitation and Hygiene facilities in schools in Kampong Cham Province, while the second project focuses on developing Climate-Resilient School Water Systems in Prey Veng Province.

H.E. Kim Sethany, expressed her gratitude for India's continued support and partnership in enhancing educational facilities and promoting health initiatives in Cambodia.

Under QIP Scheme, the Government of India implements 10 projects every year in Cambodia by providing a funding of up to USD 50,000/- each per project. Since 2015-16, the Government of India has approved 57 projects in the fields of IT, agriculture, health, sanitation, women’s empowerment, child welfare, rural development, social infrastructure (including capacity building). This initiative reflects the broader framework of India’s Act East policy, which aims to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia and foster regional cooperation. Furthermore, it underscores India's commitment to the Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) initiative.

The Embassy of India extends its sincere gratitude to all stakeholders involved in making this project a reality. Through continued cooperation and shared commitment, India and Cambodia look forward to achieving greater milestones in promoting sustainable development and inclusive growth.

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