In Memoriam - Rathana Nn

Rathana Nn established the very first, one-classroom school just outside of Wat Thmey in 2005. It was his dream to have a big school one day to give some of Siem Reap's poorest children a future that would not depend on begging.

To anyone who helped him, he would always say “thank you from the bottom of my heart” with the greatest sincerity and gratitude. In 2008, his dream finally came true, and many people have become a part of it.

Rathana tragically passed away in a car accident on April 2, 2007, but his memory lives on among us.

Chey Chamnan

Level(s):

Beginner and Pre-intermediate

Date of Birth:

20-04-1988

Why VDCA?:

I was a student at VDCA and I want to give back to the school and children.

Time at VDCA:

1.5 years

Plans for the future?:

I want to continue my study at university (Cambodia or abroad) after I finish high school. I want to be a professional teacher and a physicist. I am going to Australia in August 2009 for three months to learn and teach in a high school.

Dy Malivann

Level(s):

I am the librarian and school painter

Date of Birth:

28-02-1984

Why VDCA?:

Because of all the things VDCA has given me. I was a student at VDCA and am now the librarian. VDCA is the best school for free English education.

Time at VDCA:

One year

Plans for the future?:

I want to become a teacher and hopefully start a small school in my hometown. I want to help those people who can not receive education, because in my hometown school is very far from my village. So I'm going to show people about my achievement that I have and inspire them to do the same. Knowledge is the best way to bring people success in the future.

Yan Yin

Level(s):

Lets go! Level 2 and New Headway Elementary

Date of Birth:

13-06-1987

Why VDCA?:

Because I want to help the poor children and improve my English education

Time at VDCA:

Two years

Plans for the future?:

I hope in the future I can keep improving on my teaching. I would also love to see the school expand and reach more children.

Pet Sophea

Level(s):

Elementary to intermediate

Date of Birth:

05-11-1982

Why VDCA?:

Because I can help the poor children of Cambodia and support them in getting a good job in the future. Also, teaching helps me improve my English.

Time at VDCA:

2.5 years

Plans for the future?:

I would love to keep improving on my ability to use the English language. I also want to share my knowledge with the students.

Lmey Kea

Level(s):

Computer studies (Word and Excel)

Date of Birth:

18-01-1988

Why VDCA?:

I want to share my knowledge and experience with the poor children of Cambodia

Time at VDCA:

Four months

Plans for the future?:

I would love to see the internet connected at school. This would allow students to be able to update the internet and email friends to show our activities to sponsors and supporters.

In Memoriam - Mr Meng

Our dear friend and Assistant Director, Mr Meng, passed away on March 23, 2008.

A bright, gentle and talented young man, Mr Meng's compassion for the children and the school were matched by his dedication to assist Mr Togh.

His warm smile lit up the lives of all of us who had the pleasure to know him and will always be remembered.