AKP Phnom Penh, June 11, 2026 --

The Cambodia-Korea Alumni Association (CAMKAA), in partnership with the Phnom Penh Department of Environment (PPDE) and with support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) Cambodia Office, has concluded an 11-day Environmental Education and Basic Photography Training programme involving 200 high school students in Phnom Penh.

According to a KOICA's press release, held from June 1 to 11, the programme brought together student leaders from five schools – Trapeang Sala High School, Hun Sen Chumpouvorn High School, Boeung Brey High School, Preah Sisowath High School, and Chea Sim Samaki High School – with the aim of strengthening environmental awareness and encouraging youth participation in plastic waste reduction.

The initiative was organised under CAMKAA’s 2026 Youth Environmental Awareness Initiative, titled “Environmental Awareness Activity 2026: School-Based Plastic Waste Reduction Photo Competition & Exhibition.” It seeks to raise awareness of urban plastic pollution, promote sustainable waste management practices aligned with Cambodia’s 4R framework — Refuse, Reduce, Reuse and Recycle — and encourage environmental action through visual storytelling.

As part of the training, students attended a session titled “Focus on Plastic: Visualising Environmental Challenges,” where they learned how photography can communicate environmental messages effectively. Participants received practical guidance on smartphone photography techniques, including composition, exposure adjustment, and visual storytelling methods.

Students also took part in interactive activities designed to strengthen observation and creative skills, while exploring ways to highlight the human impact of pollution through imagery.

Following the training, participants entered a field documentation phase running from June 11 to 19, during which each student is required to submit three photographs under the theme “The Life of Plastic,” accompanied by a short narrative linking the images to plastic reduction and urban sustainability.

Submitted works will be evaluated by a joint CAMKAA–PPDE committee from June 22 to 24 based on thematic relevance, technical quality, and originality.

The programme will conclude on June 26 with a Photo Exhibition and Award Ceremony at Chea Sim Samaki High School. Outstanding participants will receive certificates and environmentally friendly prizes aimed at supporting sustainability efforts within their schools.

Organisers said the initiative reflects the shared commitment of KOICA, CAMKAA and their partners to empower Cambodian youth, promote sustainable waste management, and strengthen Cambodia-Republic of Korea cooperation toward a greener and more climate-resilient future.

By C. Nika