Pra Muth, from a poor young man with disability to a computer professional

Upskilling and Reskilling
15.07.2023
Pra Muth, a 25-year-old young man with disability, had always dreamed of a better life despite his physical barriers. His determination and passion for computer servicing drove him to seek opportunities for self-improvement.

Pra Muth lived in the small village of Ekpheap in Preah Vihear province. He was a poor young man with disability and could not walk. Dropping out of school in grade 12 in 2020, he found himself unemployed, stuck at home, and unable to physically help his parents with farm work. His family's low income from farming made it impossible for him to pursue higher education.

Life-changing kick-start

A turning point started with an awareness-raising campaign in his village at the end of 2022, highlighting the importance of education and skill development. He quickly enrolled in a computer servicing class without wasting time, hoping to fulfill his long-held dream. Becoming a computer professional had always captivated him, considering it was a profession well-suited to his circumstances.

 “I chose to join the training course at Polytechnic Institute of Preah Vihear (PIPVH) because it was a government-run school offering free classes for individuals with disabilities like me and other students. I am confident that I will be able to overcome my disability and achieve my dream of becoming a computer professional and able to run a small business in this field in the future. I am grateful for the opportunity.” He spoke.

Pathway to becoming a computer professional

His expectation was awarded. He successfully completed the first four-month training at the institute. Building upon this foundation, he was granted a three-month internship there that began on June 1, 2023. Grateful for the opportunity provided through the collaboration between the Regional Polytech Institute Techo Sen Seim Reap (RPITSSR) and Polytech Institute of Preah Vhear (PIPVH), and the Skills Development Programme, he was determined to make the most of this chance.

“I learned and engaged in theoretical and practical sessions over seven months on computer servicing compromising three main components: basic computer skills, graphic design, and computer repair. My internship took place at PIPVH, where I continued to enhance my knowledge and skills through overall support on the administrative tasks of the education office.” He narrated.

"I would like to encourage disadvantaged young women and men, as well as persons with disability, to be strong enough to think and act positively and to seek opportunities in investing in education, especially enrollment for technical vocational education and training to have specific knowledge and skills for getting decent employment and long-lasting business."
Pra Muth, a 25-year-old trainee in computer servicing in Preah Vihear

Non-discrimination leads to success

During his journey, Pra Muth sincerely thanked the management, trainers, and classmates at PIPVH and RPITSSR. They treated him respectfully and never discriminated against him because of his disability. They accommodated his disability and ensured his full participation in all aspects of the training course.

Looking toward the future, Pra Muth was confident he could overcome his physical barriers and fulfill his dream of becoming a computer professional. Equipped with the knowledge and skills brought during his training, he aspired to run his own small business in computer servicing, proving that disabilities should never hinder one's ambition and potential.

2024 - 2028
Cambodia
Initial vocational education and training, Labour market insertion, Sustainable tourism
Skills Development Programme (SDP)
The overall goal of the Skills Development Programme (SDP) is for disadvantaged young women and men and low-skilled workers in five rural provinces of Cambodia (Preah Vihear, Stung Treng, Kratie, Mondulkiri and Rattanakiri) to gain access to decent employment and increased income.