Phnom Penh: On November 14, 2023, the Royal Government introduced two significant policies aimed at improving the well-being of workers and youth in Cambodia. These initiatives were officially launched by Samdech Prime Minister Hun Manet.
The first policy, the Voluntary Health Care Program under the National Social Security Fund, extends coverage to self-employed individuals and those responsible for the National Social Security Fund. Children under 18 and spouses under 60 can voluntarily contribute to the fund, responding to the increasing demand among individuals in the informal economy. This expansion signifies the government's commitment to the health and prosperity of the people and workers, symbolized by the BEC, resulting in reduced costs, enhanced stability, increased income projections, and improved overall health.
Samdech Hun Sen emphasized that the implementation of voluntary contributions to the social security health care system would extend coverage to a total population of 5 million people, supplementing the Health Equity Fund's efforts launched on October 24, which already covers over 4 million. The combined impact of these programs aims to provide health care services to more than 9 million people, a significant stride towards achieving global health coverage.
Additionally, Samdech Hun Sen directed the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training to ensure the efficient management of students' presence and transparent, quality final exams. He stressed the importance of addressing high dropout rates and dropout challenges, emphasizing that the success of the program requires collective efforts from ministries, institutions, families, and youth.
The second policy focuses on Vocational Training and Techniques for young people from poor and vulnerable families. Aimed at 1.5 million families nationwide, this program offers free tuition and monthly stipends to equip young individuals with practical skills. This initiative aligns with the proverbial adage of teaching people to fish, rather than providing them with fish, offering sustainable opportunities for personal and economic growth.
The Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training has identified 38 priority majors across 10 sectors, including construction, electricity, energy, electronics, air conditioning, manufacturing, mechanics, tourism, services, agriculture, and information technology. Enrolled students will receive free education, a monthly stipend of 280,000 Riels, career advice, market information, internships, and practical skills to meet the demands of the job market.
Under this program, self-employed individuals and their dependents, including spouses and children, can secure social security for health care by contributing a mere 15,600 Riels. This contribution ensures access to medical treatment from partnered doctors and state hospitals. Notably, self-employed women paying contributions for nine consecutive months are entitled to maternity leave and allowances, further extending the coverage to an additional 3 million individuals, resulting in a comprehensive health care system for over 5 million people.
In conclusion, these policies represent a comprehensive approach by the Royal Government to address the diverse needs of the population, promoting health, education, and economic stability for workers and youth in Cambodia.
