PHNOM PENH—A partnership school project to instill agricultural practices in children attending state schools in Poipet City has significantly impacted students’ personal growth, strengthened community engagement and increased school self-sufficiency.

The Socio-Economic Vision Alliance (SEVA) operates the project, which was launched in 2023 at two primary schools in Poipet City, Banteay Meanchey, in collaboration with Thailand’s Community Development Association and Prime Road Alternative Cambodia.

SEVA Director Anya Minko said the initiative has been successful through its two pilot projects at Santepheap and Samaki Meanchey primary schools, where vacant land in public schools has been transformed into farms. Additionally, the project provides schools with a variety of vegetables, tools, modern agricultural training, funding, and access to markets.

Beyond developing skills and generating income, Anya explained that the project has also enhanced community engagement, positively influenced children's psychological well-being, and ultimately promoted self-sufficiency in schools.

“Every time we host training sessions, whether on solar management or mixing organic fertilizers and pesticides, community members also get involved. They take pride in their schools, which aligns with our goal of transforming them into hubs for socio-economic empowerment,” Anya said.

When asked about her immediate target locations for vegetable garden installations, Anya said she is considering Kampong Chhnang and Phnom Penh, though any potential expansion would depend on funding.

She envisions gardening projects extending beyond schools to public spaces, including hospitals, through resource-efficient practices.

“In the coming years, our first step is to secure more funding to establish additional vegetable plots in state schools. I think it would be beautiful if we could expand community engagement to other public spaces. I love the idea of having vegetable plots in hospitals,” Anya explained.

“Why not allow patients to enjoy beautiful gardens where they can consume the food they help nurture and grow?”