University Education for Young Women in Cambodia

CATALYST not only offers assistance to ensure the girls finish tertiary studies and/or training and further education programs that lead to certain employment but will also provide seminars and mentoring with emphasis on leadership, professional development and self-development, health, social as well as gender issues that will prepare these young women as potential agents of social change.

In May 2018, CATALYST program invited two Gender Specialists, Ms. Mao and Ms. Tous, who have been working with both local and international organizations for more than 10 years on gender issues to provide Gender Concept training to 35 CATALYST scholars (17 in Phnom Penh, 11 in Siem Reap Province, and 7 in Banteay Meanchey Province).

The topics covered in the training are:

• The difference between Sex and Gender
• Femininity and masculinity
• Gender stereotypes
• Gender triple roles
• Gender equality & equity

The training involves participants in many activities such as group discussion, presentation, debate and games to keep them engaged, energetic, enthusiastic, and to get the message across effectively. 

Students’ Reflection:

Lach: “Before the course I knew nothing about Gender. Now I realize women are very valuable for both family and the whole society. I also understand the difference between Sex and Gender. Gender is about the concept, value, behavior, roles, and responsibilities of women and men that are determined by society, whereas Sex refers to biological fact. I get to understand that women and men have equal right in decision making, to be head of the family, to participate in the society, to be a leader, i.e. having equal right to everything! I now understand Gender Equality and Equity as well.”

Man: “After attending Gender Concept training, I get to understand about the same value and right of men and women. It helps me to be courageous to stand up and participate in various activities and demand for Gender Equality and Equity. More importantly, it allows me to realize my own value and right that motivate and encourage me to bravely confront with any challenges coming my way.”

Thank you to the donors who are creating change through education!