-Aide et Action, Cambodia-
The first electronic library was installed on the 3rd of March, 2016 at Svay Rolum primary school, which is located in Kandal province, around 15 Km from the Phnom Penh Capital.
Developed by Aide et Action in collaboration with the ministry of Education, its main goal is to improve the reading and learning for children aged 3 to 11 years old. It will help them have access to reading books and other documents available online. It also allows the teachers to enhance their teaching methods using this new technology. “This is the first electronic library in my province. I appreciate this program because the children can access more online books and it can improve their reading habits and their knowledge”, said Mr. Samrith Khoeun, Director of The Provincial Department of Education.
30 tablets, connected to the Internet have been given to this library. The educational programs, songs and games have been installed on these tablets in order to enrich children’s reading. “I like going to the library because I can read the story books and I can enjoy songs and cartoons on these devices”, said Srey Ny, a grade 1 girl.
The electronic library is one of the main activities of the reading project program. According to Mr. Samphors Vorn, Country Program Director of Aide et Action, this year, 200 tablets will be given to 7 electronic libraries in rural areas of Cambodia. In addition, the organization is trying to mobilize more resources to expend this activity in other provinces of Cambodia. “As technology gradually develops, it should be used to develop education in Cambodia, especially in rural areas. Aide et Action believes that this new type of library will improve the reading and learning for children as well as teaching methods for teachers”, added Mr. Samphors Vorn.
