AKP Phnom Penh, March 30, 2026 --

Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha, Minister of National Defence and Head of the Royal Government Working Group for Siem Reap province, along with his spouse, Mrs. Tieng Eng Tea Seiha, on Monday engaged in a solidarity meal with children who are deaf and blind from birth at the Provincial Special Education High School, as well as orphans at the Provincial Orphanage Centre.

During the visit, the Deputy Prime Minister and his spouse expressed their compassion for the children, who are receiving general and technical education at the centres under the dedicated care of their teachers—whom they described as second parents to the children. 

They highlighted the continuous attention provided by Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet and his spouse, Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony, alongside other senior leaders, who ensure monthly provisions for the school for deaf and blind children and arrange recreational gatherings for them.

H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha emphasised that although the children’s biological parents may no longer be present, the care and affection from the nation’s leaders remain unwavering. He noted that the hopeful smiles and gestures of the children convey deep meaning, which the leaders understand from the heart. “You must remember that no matter where we go, we always think of all of you, even if you face physical and mental challenges,” he said. “In the future, we want to see you grow up to become exemplary youth who are self-reliant and contribute to the nation. Remember, the sun still rises, and hope still exists for all of us.”

The Deputy Prime Minister and his spouse also praised the teachers for their dedication in educating the children, noting that their efforts have enabled deaf and blind students to secure employment with private companies, providing them with incomes to support their daily lives. He highlighted that this reflects the non-discriminatory approach of private firms toward people with disabilities, underscoring that every individual is born with unique talents regardless of their physical condition. He also advised the students to respect and follow their teachers’ guidance, support their peers, foster unity within the centre, dedicate themselves to their studies, and stay away from drugs.

According to Mrs. Hong Theary, Director of the Provincial Special Education High School, the facility comprises 12 buildings for learning and accommodation, with a staff of 45, including eight visually impaired employees. The school currently serves a total of 196 students, comprising 121 deaf students, 63 blind students, and 12 students with intellectual disabilities and autism. She noted that the school’s operations are sustained by the regular support of the Deputy Prime Minister and his spouse, as well as other philanthropists, who provide learning materials and monthly food supplies. These contributions, she said, bring warmth to the children and encourage their perseverance.

On the occasion, H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha and his spouse donated six tonnes of rice, beverages, supplies, and 12 million Riel (approx. US$3,000) to the Provincial Special Education High School, along with 2 million Riel (approx. US$500) to the Provincial Orphanage Centre. They also provided school supplies and 20,000 Riel (approx. US$5) to each student.

By K. Rithy Reak