In 2020, a new chapter unfolded for Sochantha when Samaritan’s Purse built a school Cheng Meng Primary in Banteay Meanchey Province, Cambodia. For the first time, she and her classmates had access to a clean, safe, and well-equipped environment to learn and dream. Alongside the sturdy classrooms, teaching and learning materials transformed their educational experience, igniting a spark in young Sochantha’s heart.
Today, that spark burns brighter than ever. Sochantha is now a student at Takong High School, where Samaritan’s Purse continues to make an impact. The high school boasts an e-library filled with computers, tablets, learning resources, and essential Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities. For Sochantha, these tools are more than just resources—they’re inspirations. She sees them as stepping stones toward her goal of excelling in her studies and achieving the same success she once enjoyed in primary school.
Reflecting on her journey, Sochantha shared, “Seeing Samaritan’s Purse again makes me so happy. These materials inspire me to study even harder to become an outstanding student.”
This transformation isn’t just about one student; it’s part of a much larger story. Since 2007, Samaritan’s Purse has been committed to reshaping education in rural Cambodia through initiatives like Schools for Kids (school construction) and We Can Read and Write (literacy program). The Samaritan’s Purse Schools for Kids program has already constructed nearly 48 schools across the country, giving thousands of children access to quality education in spaces designed for safety, health, and creativity.
Each school represents more than bricks and mortar. It’s a community effort, providing jobs, fostering collaboration, and uplifting entire villages. By ensuring that schools include clean latrines, handwashing stations, and playgrounds, Samaritan’s Purse creates an environment where children not only learn but also thrive.
Sochantha’s story is a testament to the far-reaching impact of these efforts. With every new school built and every resource provided, countless children in Cambodia are stepping into a brighter future. For Sochantha, for her classmates, and for her community, the promise of a better tomorrow begins with the opportunities created today.