PHNOM PENH, 26 July 2020 – Despite the pandemic, the Philippine Embassy in Phnom Penh successfully conducted the remaining sessions of the 2nd Batch of the free Basic Khmer Language Classes through online meetings.
The classes began with a physical meeting at the Embassy premises on 8 March 2020, but were later postponed due to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in Cambodia and given need to protect the health and safety of the participants to the class.
After a few months, the Embassy decided to continue the conduct of the remaining classes through online meetings and the class, thus, resumed on 15 June 2020. An average of twenty-five (25) participants attended the online class every Monday and Wednesday evening, and Saturday morning.
The 20-hour language training program was funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs – Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs and organized to help the newly-arrived OFWs in Cambodia learn basic Khmer expressions that will be helpful in introducing oneself and interacting with their Cambodian colleagues and neighbors, as well as ordering food, counting, asking and telling directions, and shopping, among others.
The classes, which were conducted by Khmer language teacher for foreigners and author of the book “Cambodian Vocabulary for Foreigners” Mr. Hok Dara, also covered and discussed some Cambodian culture and traditions.
A brief program was held at the Embassy on 26 July 2020 to award the certificates to those who completed the program. In her remarks, Third Secretary and Vice Consul Frances Cleofas emphasized that “despite the pandemic, it is important for the Embassy to help impart basic knowledge on the language and culture of Cambodia to ensure that the stay of OFWs here will become much more comfortable. Knowing something about the culture also contributes to forming a good relationship with locals. Through technology, the Embassy was able to conduct Khmer language classes and encourage participation even with the current situation.”
Eighteen (18) participants successfully completed the 2nd Batch of the Khmer Language Classes. END
