Partnering to connect a world where all children are able to access education.

Salariin Kampuchea is built on the belief that education is a universal right, which has the power to improve the lives of people in our community. Our mission is motivated by the hope that our children and young people will grow up to enjoy the life prospects denied to their parents.

We operate an education and youth empowerment center offering supplementary classes, learning support, and career counselling to vulnerable children and youth in Siem Reap, Cambodia. We serve over 300 young beneficiaries with the goal of equipping them with the skills they need to build their own future and thrive in Siem Reap’s burgeoning economy.

Our staff and volunteers provide high-quality, foreign languages and computing classes, life skills courses and local internships for young adults, and learning support for students at risk of falling behind at school. Our center is equipped with a cherished community library and study space, and hosts a range of popular sporting and extracurricular activities.

Establishing Salariin Kampuchea

In 2003, two Swiss individuals founded Salariin with a vision to improve educational opportunities in the rural areas of Siem Reap, Cambodia. Recognizing the limited access to quality schooling, they wanted to create a space where children and young people could learn, grow, and build a better future. What began as a small initiative soon turned to a great and very much needed project.

First Computer Classes

In 2008 we launched our IT classes. At this time, computing classes and skills were less popular and many people did not view them as essential. However, we saw the potential in teaching these skills to help equip students with skills that are useful in the job market as the use of technology becomes more vital. 

Partnership with Donabate Portran Education Together National School (DPETNS) from Ireland

Our English teachers were provided with further teacher training to support them. During several workshops, our staff learnt how to improve their teaching strategies and techniques at the school. These topics included classroom management, student motivation and encouragement, having fun in the lessons, providing meaningful feedback, how to teach kids and adults effectively, and how to use various resources wisely.

Relocating the school

In 2016, Salariin moved to a new location, marking another important step in its development. This transition resulted in more space and improved facilities, allowing us to better accommodate students and ensure they have a supportive environment for learning and personal growth. It also provided greater flexibility, allowing us to conduct lessons during more convenient hours for students and deliver a wider range of activities. 

Collaboration with Bookbridge

In 2017, the school faced difficulties with acquiring the funds necessary to operate. As an NGO school, the reliance on donations to provide this essential education often leaves the school on a very tight budget. Bookbridge, an organization designed to help NGOs grow, worked with us to develop a business plan to make the school financially sustainable. Salariin Kampuchea School has now been operating profitably since 2019. 

Library Opening

The opening of the library transformed Salariin from a simple educational initiative into a true community hub. Students have an access to books and a safe space to stay while they wait for classes to start or be around their friends. For many, it supported their learning while also providing comfort, stability, and a sense of belonging.

Educating despite the pandemic

While Cambodia was heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, we maintained our commitment to our school and community, prioritising our goal of helping our students achieve their full potential and providing educational care. Despite challenges, we organized online lessons on Zoom and Telegram to continue providing education even in difficult times. We ran a program to offer food to disadvantaged families as well.