A Brief History of Cambodia.

The people and children I have met and taught throughout my travels have changed me in ways words cannot express. I hope my visit to Cambodia will be as impactful as my other trips. I am excited to meet new people, learn new things, and grow from the experience. As I will most likely change after visiting, it is important to note how much change the country has already been through. Opportunities for young people, education, health, infrastructure, and more have already undergone so much improvement. Although there is still much to improve upon, the country is headed in a good direction.

During World War Two, Cambodia was occupied by Japan. In 1945 however, that was quickly ended. In the meantime, a compelling war of politics has the country in shambles. In 1981, Cambodia refused to accept any new form of government. The country’s name changed from Kampuchea, Democratic Kampuchea, and back to the State of Cambodia (when Buddhism was reinstated as the dominant religion), which all took place from 1975-1989. An uneasy peace was felt throughout the country for six years from 1991-95 because of a peace treaty signed in Paris. Recently, border tensions have eased, and the King, Norodom Sihamoni, has stepped down but still resides in the country. After the King stepped down, Cambodia has been run by the Prime Minister, Hun Sen, since 1998.

This leads to the life I will experience, grow, and learn from. An average of 90-95% of the population is “Khmer” or “Cambodian,” which shows there isn’t much migration happening to or from the country. Still, the country is one of the largest growing populations in Asia. In Cambodia, agriculture accounts for 90% of the gross domestic product or income. However, rice has always been a priority. It is a vital economic factor in Cambodia’s society. Secondary crops that contribute to the economy are such plants as maize, cassava, sweet potatoes, soybeans, sesame seeds, groundnuts, dry beans, and rubber. Rubber is important as it is one of the country’s few sources of foreign exchange. Raising livestock is also normality in the country. Textile production is also a very large industry that affects people all over the world. Take a look at the tags on your shirt; it may have been made in Cambodia!

The rapidly changing lifestyle and society in Cambodia today contribute to the majority population that lives in rural areas. It is a country made up of an arrangement of cultures; different ethnic groups speak different languages and follow different beliefs. Most of the people have one thing in common: poverty. The average yearly income of a typical Cambodian household is $1,228.50 USD. Whereas the average income of a household in the US is $59,039 USD.

All the change and development found in the country is helping to create a successful future and will help the country thrive. A goal for the people is to have at least ten years of schooling. This will form the basic building block for a much more productive workforce. Education is power. Then, Cambodia will move forward with specialized vocational or tertiary education and matching employee skills to employer needs. Currently, there are tons of organizations and non-profits aiding in educating and developing the vocational skills of the population. Overcoming these obstacles and preparing for the future will give Cambodia the extra push towards adapting to the developed world.

I hope to be of service wherever I am needed most. I cannot wait to fall in love with the Cambodian people and culture. I am excited, and this newfound knowledge of the country has only increased my excitement. I intend for this opportunity to help teach me and enable me to grow emotionally and mentally.