PHNOM PENH — Prime Minister Hun Manet has called for greater investment in Cambodia's young people through equal access to quality education, STEM and job-ready skills, while urging the government to prepare now for a rapidly aging population so older people are not left behind.

The appeal came in a circular issued to mark the 37th World Population Day, urging ministries, state institutions, development partners, civil society organizations and other stakeholders to expand education and employment opportunities for young people while strengthening healthcare and social protection for elderly people.
Observed annually on July 11, this year's World Population Day carries the theme, "Realizing the hopes and aspirations of young people – today and for the future," highlighting the role of young people in shaping national development.
Hun Manet urged stakeholders to invest in education, vocational training and decent employment, with particular emphasis on digital literacy, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), entrepreneurship and skills that match labor market demand.
He said Cambodia must better align education and workforce training with private sector needs to equip young people with the skills required to drive future economic growth.
The circular, released on July 13, also stresses the need to prepare for major demographic changes as Cambodia's population continues to age.
Hun Manet said long-term national planning should strengthen healthcare, social protection, pension systems, long-term care services and opportunities for older people to remain active participants in society.
According to the 2024 population census, Cambodia has 17.3 million people. Those under 15 account for 26.8 percent of the population, while people aged 15 to 34 make up 34.6 percent. Another 32.1 percent are between 35 and 64 years old, and 6.5 percent are aged 65 and above.
Population projections based on a medium-declining fertility scenario estimate Cambodia's population will reach about 24 million by 2050. While the share of people aged 15 to 34 is expected to decline, the proportion of those aged 35 to 64 and those 65 and older will continue to grow.
Hun Manet said Cambodia must take advantage of its current demographic window by investing in young people before the country's age structure shifts further.
"If investment in the younger generation is delayed, Cambodia will face greater challenges in the future," he said.
He also called for stronger population data systems to support evidence-based policymaking, saying improvements in civil registration, statistical systems, surveys, population projections and the use of administrative data would enable more targeted and effective public policies.
The prime minister further emphasized gender equality and the inclusion of vulnerable groups, calling for stronger healthcare services, expanded social protection, family health education, and greater protection for women, children, people with disabilities and other vulnerable communities.
Cambodianess, which is operated by Cambodian Media Broadcasting Corporation, provides breaking, credible and impartial news on Cambodia's current affairs and around the world.