Congratulations to all 136 students who successfully graduated from Saint Paul Institute (SPI).

On January 23, 2025, the Saint Paul Institute organized a commencement exercise for 136 students with 79 female and opened the new academic year of 2024-2025 under the presidency of H.E. Dr. Chea Vandeth, Minister of Post and Telecommunications, and a representative of Takeo Constituent, together with the secretary of state, the undersecretary of state, Takeo governors, the head of Tramkok district, local authorities, as well as priests, Catholic NGOs representatives, the offices director of Phnom Penh Vicariate, lecturers, parents, and students, in total around 1100 people.

In welcome remarks, Dr. Phon Sophal, Director of Saint Paul Institute (SPI), highlighted the importance of collaboration in the institution’s approach to education. He explained that SPI is not just focused on providing education alone; rather, the institute works closely with a network of local and international partners to ensure students receive a comprehensive, well-rounded education that is both academically and globally relevant. One of the key highlights of SPI’s educational model is its impressive graduation rate. Since its founding, SPI has seen 1,530 students graduate, including 743 female graduates, reflecting the institute’s commitment to providing quality educational opportunities for all. The graduation rate has consistently ranged from 98% to 100%, a testament to SPI’s rigorous academic standards, dedicated faculty, and supportive learning environment. Dr. Phon Sophal also emphasized that SPI students are not just passing exams; they are gaining the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their careers and make meaningful contributions to Cambodian society.

His Excellency Bishop Olivier Schmitthaeusler, the founder and chancellor of Saint Paul Institute (SPI), and the Apostolic Vicar of Phnom Penh, in his remark, was strongly mentioned how artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing contemporary education currently in the world and Cambodia. He strongly mentioned that artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way of education and also creating new opportunities for both lecturers and students. So, how critical it is that educational institutions like SPI take the initiative to adjust to these technological developments? We must be aware of our curriculum and continuously update our programs to stay relevant, he continued. He also mentioned that, however, we have to highlight the necessity of properly managing these changes to guarantee that student’s welfare and the standard of knowledge continue to be the highest priorities and not allow AI to control us.

H.E. Vy Samnang, Takeo governor has expressed thanks and appreciation to Saint Paul Institute which always helps young people from the community to study bachelor’s degrees. He mentioned that SPI is joined hands with the Cambodian government to develop higher education in Cambodia under the great leadership of Samdech Hun Manet.  H.E. Vy Samnang, the Governor of Takeo Province, has expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to Saint Paul Institute (SPI) for its ongoing support of young people from the community to pursue their bachelor’s degrees. In his remarks, H.E. Vy Samnang highlighted SPI’s vital role in providing access to higher education, enabling students to build a better future for themselves and their families. He acknowledged that SPI’s efforts are fully aligned with the Cambodian government’s objectives to expand and improve higher education across the country, particularly under the great leadership of Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia, to develop the nation’s educational system and empower the younger generation.

Cambodia’s Minister of Post and Telecommunications, H.E. Dr. Chea Vandeth, has expressed his admiration and heartfelt congratulations to the Saint Paul Institute (SPI) for its ongoing efforts to support students in their educational journeys. He appreciated the SPI for its dedication to creating opportunities for the youth of Cambodia to pursue higher education and develop valuable skills for the future. He was grateful to His Excellency Bishop Olivier Schmitthaeusler, Dr. Phon Sophal, and the entire staff at Saint Paul Institute, recognizing their tireless commitment to nurturing the next generation with a high quality of education and life. In his remarks, he emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in education, especially in the rapidly evolving digital age. He expressed his unwavering support for the Institute’s efforts, outlining several concrete ways his ministry would assist SPI to enhance its infrastructure and educational offerings. H.E. Dr. Chea Vandeth affirmed his commitment to assisting SPI by announcing a series of key initiatives that will help further strengthen the institution’s capacity to provide quality education. The proposed support includes:

1. Installation of University Management System (UMS): H.E. Dr. Chea Vandeth highlighted that the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications would collaborate with SPI to implement an advanced University Management System. This system will streamline administrative processes, improve student management, and increase efficiency across various departments within the Institute.
2. Digital Verification Certificates: A digital certification system will be introduced, allowing SPI to issue certificates with enhanced security and verification features. This move aims to ensure the credibility and authenticity of qualifications issued by the Institute, reinforcing SPI’s reputation as a leading educational institution.
3. Support for Digital Programs at Saint Francois General Knowledge and Private Technical High School: H.E. Dr. Chea Vandeth confirmed that his Ministry would provide technical and resource support for digital education programs at both Saint Paul Institute and Saint Francois General Knowledge and Private Technical High School. This initiative will enhance access to cutting-edge technologies and improve the overall learning experience for students.
4. Master’s Degree Scholarships: As part of his commitment to promoting higher education in IT and digital fields, H.E. Dr. Chea Vandeth announced that the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications would offer scholarships for Master’s degree programs. These scholarships will be available to both teachers and students who wish to pursue further studies in IT, digital technologies, and related fields, ultimately helping to foster a highly skilled and knowledgeable workforce.
5. Infrastructure Development: In a bid to improve the physical accessibility of Saint Paul Institute, H.E. Dr. Chea Vandeth confirmed the Ministry’s agreement to fund the construction of a 1-kilometer road in front of the Institute. This infrastructural development will improve transportation access for students and staff, ensuring smooth access to the Institute’s campus.

Saint Paul Institute (SPI)

January 23, 2025