Cambodian students form a heart in the shape of the Fe y Alegría logo
Jesuit Mission Australia is appealing for support to address a critical education crisis in rural Cambodia through its transformative education projects, such as Fe y Alegría (Faith and Joy).
Despite widespread school access, most Cambodian children struggle with basic literacy and writing. Parents sacrifice everything to get their child into school – only to find classrooms devoid of real learning.
The substantive education happens in supplementary classes which come at extra cost. Children from poor families simply miss out on the education their future depends on – a reality Cambodian researchers have described as a system “of uncare and exploitation”.
The statistics paint a stark picture: less than 10 per cent of students achieve minimum proficiency in reading and maths, while only 17 per cent of children from the poorest families complete lower secondary school.
“In the face of this crisis, Fe y Alegría offers real hope,” said Helen Forde, CEO of Jesuit Mission Australia.
“I love going to school now!” – Manut, 11 years old, takes classes at Fe y Alegria’s Community Learning Centre
Founded in 1955 by Jesuit priest Father José María Vélaz, Fe y Alegría strengthens education systems from the ground up through practical teacher training, enriched learning opportunities for students, and deep engagement with families.
“This proven education movement has transformed the lives of 1.5 million students worldwide,” said Forde, urging support for pioneering education projects like this in Asia Pacific.
Three years ago, an extraordinary gift from an Australian benefactor allowed Jesuit Mission to launch Fe y Alegría in Cambodia – the movement’s first initiative in Southeast Asia.
Fr Mark Lopez SJ, Fe y Alegría Cambodia Director, believes community is at the heart of a great education
Fr Mark Lopez SJ, Fe y Alegría Cambodia Director, said community connection is fundamental to the programme’s success.
“The sense of community – where there is life-giving concern for all, by all – is the seedbed for quality education. This is the heart of what Fe y Alegría brings to Cambodia,” Fr Lopez said.
The impact is already visible. Eleven-year-old Sothea Manut was falling behind at school, where he received only basic lessons. After joining a Community Learning Centre supported by Fe y Alegría, he now studies computers, English, traditional Khmer dance, art, and environmental studies.
“I love going to school now,” Manut said. “One day, I want to become a teacher so I can help others learn.”
“This isn’t just about providing services. We’re building sustainable change led by Cambodians themselves,” said Forde.
To donate to Fe Y Alegría Cambodia, please visit Jesuit Mission Australia’s website.
