Cambodia University of Technology and Science (CamTech University) marked a key milestone on December 17 with its first-ever graduation ceremony, celebrating the completion of PhD, Master’s, and Bachelor’s degree programmes by its inaugural cohort. The ceremony was presided over by H.E. Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth and Sport, and attended by private-sector representatives including Dr. Lim Lina, Vice Chairperson of Canadia Group and Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC), and Mr. Kang Leng, Chief Executive Officer of ISI Group.
CamTech’s Role in Advancing Science- and Technology-Based Higher Education
“Our inaugural graduation reflects our students’ achievements and the collective effort behind building this university,” said Dr. Sothy Khieng, Founding President of CamTech. “Our graduates are equipped with strong technical foundations, compassion and intercultural understanding to address national and global challenges.”
Launched in 2018, CamTech University is a higher-education initiative focused on science, technology, artificial intelligence, robotics, engineering and applied disciplines that support Cambodia’s growing demand for skilled human capital. Founded by Canadia Group and OCIC Chairman Lok Neak Oknha Dr. Pung Kheav Se, the university was established to strengthen science- and technology-based skills aligned with Cambodia’s broader development efforts.
Operating as a private, not-for-profit institution, CamTech emphasises practical learning shaped by real industry needs, ensuring graduates are prepared for emerging sectors within a changing economic and technological landscape.
Education as a Long-Term Commitment
CamTech forms part of OCIC’s longer-term engagement in education, developed over more than a decade and first realized through Canadian International School of Phnom Penh. Together, these initiatives reflect a consistent approach to building human capital, from early and secondary education through to science- and technology-focused higher education.
During the welcome remarks, Dr. Lim Lina encouraged graduates to apply their knowledge with purpose and responsibility.
“Give back to Cambodia with everything you’ve learned,” she said, adding that OCIC is proud to be part of this milestone and to contribute to science and technology education for the next generation.
Partnerships Supporting Workforce Readiness and Global Exposure
The university is supported by long-term partners, including OCIC, the Federation of Khmer Chinese in Cambodia, Chip Mong Group, ISI Group and Canadia Bank. Their involvement contributes to academic programs, facilities, scholarships, and student development opportunities.
“CamTech is not just a place to study; it feels like home, and it has given me opportunities I never imagined possible, including student exchange programmes abroad and an internship in the Netherlands during my fourth year,” said Kri Sorachana, CamTech’s inaugural class valedictorian and Data Science and AI graduate.
At the ceremony, H.E. Dr. Hang Chuon Naron acknowledged the role of private-sector participation in education, noting that CamTech’s establishment aligns with Cambodia’s development priorities, particularly in advancing science, technology and innovation.
CamTech is also developing targeted programmes that respond to specific workforce needs, including a planned aviation academy in partnership with the Philippines-based WCC-ATC.
Additionally, international partnerships with institutions such as Concordia University, Ohio University and St. John’s College provide students with broader academic exposure, while inclusive participation and leadership development are reflected through engagement at global platforms, including the UN Commission on the Status of Women.
