Supporting education and opportunity in Cambodia

  
2026.3.31
Community

Supporting education and opportunity in Cambodia

 

One of Komatsu’s ambitious projects in proactively changing our world has been the demining of Cambodia. In 2008, Komatsu began donating equipment in the country to remove landmines laid over decades of conflict. These mines still pose a danger to civilians, making their removal important.

But also as part of our Cambodia initiative, Komatsu has provided a scholarship program to young people from communities affected by landmines. The scholarships provide financial help in education in all sorts of workforce roles.

These include human resources, engineering, accountancy, medical, clerical and other roles. It is all part of Komatsu’s commitment to people a value that guides our actions across the company.

 


The students from the program are selected from a series of schools Komatsu built in the affected communities. The first school was built in 2009 in the Battamang Province, and by 2022 a total of 10 schools had been built. Many children in these communities had never had schools nearby and had to commute a long distance to get to schools. The scholarships began in 2022 and were an outgrowth of this program.

As part of the scholarship, the recipients are also able to land internships at businesses in Cambodia. These help the students gain hands-on skills to prepare them for their future careers, emboldening their education.


The scholarship recipients are:

Ran Makkara – Contract Teacher
A student at the National University of Battambang, Makkara teaches at a local primary school while pursuing his degree. Resilient and determined, he continues to chase the dreams he has held since childhood, inspiring those around him through his commitment to education and growth.

Ron Sreydin – Khmer Literature Teacher
Sreydin teaches Khmer literature in Phnom Penh while studying at the National University of Battambang. Driven by her passion for learning, she hopes to pursue a master’s degree and deepen her impact on her students and community.

Da Kaknika – Engineering Intern
While studying at Build Bright University, Kaknika works as an assistant site engineer. She believes engineering is about building solutions that serve society and is committed to making a meaningful impact through infrastructure and innovation.

Ran Makkara – Contract Teacher
“Since I was a child, I’ve had countless dreams. Even when I fail, I rise again and keep walking toward them.”
Makkara teaches at a local primary school while studying at the National University of Battambang. His commitment to education continues to inspire those around him.

Ron Sreydin – Khmer Literature Teacher
“I want to continue my studies and pursue a master’s degree.”
Sreydin teaches Khmer literature in Phnom Penh while attending the National University of Battambang. Her passion for learning and teaching reflects her dedication to her students and community.

Da Kaknika – Engineering Intern
“Engineering is not just about knowledge—it’s about building solutions that benefit society.”
Kanknika studies at Build Bright University and works as an assistant site engineer. She hopes to make a lasting impact through her work in infrastructure and innovation.

Su Vandet – Industrial Engineering Operator
A student at the National Polytechnic Institute of Cambodia, Vandet is gaining hands-on experience as an operator at Denso Cambodia. Known for his positive energy and strong work ethic, he balances discipline with creativity, using imagination and self-motivation to pursue both short- and long-term goals. Vandet is driven by self-improvement and believes learning comes from everyone and everything around him.

Oun Seang Uy – Relationship Officer
Currently in his fifth year at the National University of Battambang, Uy is interning with Mohanorkor Microfinance Plc. His enthusiasm and adaptability allow him to thrive in both team environments and independent roles. With a strong sense of responsibility and reliability, he approaches challenges with confidence and determination.

Phol Phanna – Accountant
Phanna is studying at the National University of Battambang while gaining professional experience at Sokret Pheap Finance Co., Ltd. Calm, patient, and highly motivated, she approaches her work with integrity and persistence. Her ability to adapt and problem-solve reflects a commitment to growth, even in difficult situations.

Thea Sokunleakena – Receptionist
A fourth-year student at the University of Management and Economics, Sokunleakena is gaining professional experience at Khemran Vocational Training Organization. Known for her honesty and strong work ethic, she values teamwork, planning, and building positive relationships. With a curiosity for learning and research, she continues to strengthen her confidence while developing skills that support both her studies and her future career.

Thea Saren – X-Ray Operator
Currently enrolled at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, Saren has taken on a rare professional opportunity as an X-ray operator with Sakam Security, supporting operations connected to Phnom Penh’s new airport. Her experience reflects the reality that learning paths are not always linear, and that real-world opportunities can play an important role in long-term growth. She plans to continue her studies when the time is right.

Kean Sokmean – Credit Officer
A fourth-year student at the National University of Battambang, Sokmean is working as a credit officer at LOLC Cambodia Plc. While balancing work and studies is challenging, he remains motivated by the opportunity to apply his skills and work toward a stronger future. His determination reflects a deep appreciation for the opportunity created through the scholarship program.

Hen Sinet – Accountant Assistant
A third-year student at Build Bright University, Sinet is gaining hands-on experience as an accountant assistant at Romdoul House. Honest, hardworking, and team-oriented, she values collaboration and building strong relationships at work. With a genuine interest in learning and research within her field, she continues working to deepen her experience while steadily pursuing her long-term goal of building her own business — a determination that reflects her commitment to growth and future entrepreneurship.

Chhit Ratha – Barista and Bakery Team Member
A second-year student at Norton University of Phnom Penh, Ratha works at Cambodia Bagels while continuing his studies. Although his job is outside his academic major, he sees it as an opportunity to learn responsibility, build confidence, and gain meaningful life experience. By balancing work, study, and family, Ratha remains focused on his future goals and grateful for the support that helps him keep moving forward.

Pat Chandavy – Contract Teacher
Currently studying at the National University of Battambang, Chandavy is living out a long-held dream as a contract teacher at Treng Primary School. Inspired by her goal of becoming an educator since sixth grade, she continues to persevere through challenges with determination and a clear sense of purpose.

Pheap Sophors – Budget and Management Intern
A fourth-year student at the National University of Battambang, Pheap is gaining experience in the Department of Budget and Management at Ambel Cash Plc. Enthusiastic and self-motivated, she brings reliability and adaptability to her work, whether collaborating with a team or taking initiative to solve challenges independently.

Da Sovichit – Sales and Technical Intern
A first-year student at the National University of Battambang, Da is building early career experience with Krabeikhmer Agriculture in Battambang. Friendly and team-oriented, he approaches obstacles with patience and persistence. With clear goals and a strong work ethic, he is committed to turning effort into long-term success.

 


 

The scholarship is done in collaboration with Japan Mine Action Service (JMAS), an authorized NPOdedicated to demining, with similar values to Komatsu. JMAS has worked extensively in Cambodia and remains a trusted partner The JMAS and Komatsu collaboration has been going strong now for 18 years, with the Cambodian Mine Action Center (CMAC) as a partner in that country.