Education minister Hang Chuon Naron on July 30 encouraged 47 Cambodian scouts, who are bound for the 25th World Scout Jamboree in South Korea, to promote and maintain the Kingdom’s values and dignity at the event, scheduled to run from August 1 to 12.

“Each of you must uphold and maintain the values, national dignity and honour of the Cambodia scouts by participating in all activities at the jamboree and working hard to learn new skills.

“You are serving as goodwill ambassadors and will promote Cambodian culture in the international arena through communicating in the spirit of friendship and peace with camp members from other countries,” said Naron, in his capacity as president of the Cambodia Scouts.

Cheng Sam Ol, director of the Kandal provincial Department of Education, Youth and Sport, noted that scouts play an important role in schools and wider society, and that scouting prepares young people to become good future citizens.

He urged the young scouts to study hard at the jamboree, acquire knowledge and adhere to the rules and regulations in order to promote the values of the Kingdom.

Kin Phea director of the Royal Academy of Cambodia’s International Relations Institute, said that sending youth to participate in shared activities with other nations is a positive thing and one which would boost human resource development, and eventually the economy.

“Participating in international programmes encourages young people to gain new knowledge, skills and experience while broadening their perspectives. It also teaches them courage,” he said.

“Providing these kinds of opportunities to young people is very beneficial. I would suggest that all young people make every effort to take advantage of the jamboree – both for their benefit and for the nation,” he added.

This year marks the sixth in which the Cambodia Scouts have participated in a World Scout Jamboree.