"Girls and Science (Des filles et des sciences)" Project at Happy Chandara School
Dedicating to providing free, high-quality education to girls from the poorest communities in Cambodia, the organization Toutes à l'école initiated the “Girls and Science (Des filles et des sciences)” project at its Happy Chandara School with the support from Fondation L’Oréal, which seeks to spark an early interest in science among female students and increase their representation in scientific disciplines. This initiative integrates hands-on scientific exploration at all levels of education, from primary to secondary school. Access to laboratories, practical experiments, and the training of laboratory assistants ensures that theoretical concepts are taught with an emphasis on real-world application. Complementary courses in computer science equip students with skills essential for emerging careers. Additionally, the project is complemented by science-related extra-curricular activities such as coding courses, permaculture workshops and recycling initiatives. Students are also encouraged to undertake their own projects as part of an Eco-Committee.
These efforts have borne fruit: in 2022, 26% of Happy Chandara School’s graduates pursued scientific disciplines after finishing high school. Alumni successes include placements in agronomy, engineering, medicine, and computer science.
Recommended by: Chloe Iglesias
Véronique Darasse (Toutes à l'école)