Educational Inclusion in Samlout & Rukhak Kiri, Cambodia: A Scoping Study Report

This report details the findings of an ‘Inclusion in Cambodia’ Scoping Study undertaken in October 2018. The study was led by researchers from the University of Aberdeen and the University of Battambang, Cambodia, alongside KHEN, an Education NGO and key education system actor in the region. This team collaborated to explore the potential for capacity-building in inclusive practice in remote rural schools in line with SDG 4 (Inclusive Education for All). To explore this, a Scoping Study was conducted in two remote areas of Battambang Province. Inclusion surveys were sent to over 100 teachers. Observations were undertaken in 5 schools, and teachers, Headteachers, District Officers and the Director of Battambang Teacher Training College were interviewed to determine perceptions of inclusive education. The findings indicate that there is widespread dissatisfaction with the current quality of inclusion in rural schools. Interviewees cite a lack training and resourcing, and a range of socio-cultural and economic barriers as key factors. This report explores the findings, discusses the issues raised and examines the implications of the study for the next stage of the research project. This will entail development of a capacity building programme for teachers in rural schools that is practical, context-sensitive, sustainable and has local and national relevance.