chanhengmenh/aupp-chatbot huggingface dataset:
International Banks Provides Scholarships to Cambodian Students
Date: 2015-09-16T17:05:00

One of the world’s international bank has announced that it will provide scholarships to dedicated Cambodian students with financial struggles for their education at a leading university in Cambodia.

In a joint statement released Today by Shinhan Bank and American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP), Shinhan Bank will provided $20,000 for ten Cambodian students who earned Grade A or B on the National School Leaver Examination in August 2015. The scholarships will be awarded to students who are in financial need and wish to study at AUPP.

The announcement of the contribution from the Shinhan Bank is a commitment to help build quality education in Cambodia. AUPP is appealing to companies, institutions, and individuals who can help dedicated Cambodian students who cannot afford to further their education.

This year, as part of helping to promote quality education and human resource development in Cambodia, AUPP has provided 120 scholarships to Cambodian students, 30 of which cover the full cost of tuition ($9000 per year) for the entire course of study at AUPP.

The partial scholarships (90) are divided into three categories, 30 of which cover $6000 per year for the entire course of study, 30 others cover $4000 per year and the remaining 30 places cover $2000 for the entire course of study respectively.

Shinhan Bank is the second largest bank in South Korea. The bank established it’s branch in Cambodia in 2007.

AUPP continues to forge a strong community to support education. AUPP hopes more businesses and individuals will follow our lead in building a stronger foundation for education in Cambodia and in the ASEAN region in order to develop today’s students into tomorrow’s leaders.
AUPP Goes ASEAN
Date: 2015-09-15T17:03:00

Over the week of September 7th, AUPP representatives visited Vientiane, Laos in order to study the country’s schools and educational styles.

AUPP President, Dr. Sharon Siverts, and AUPP Founders, Dr. Chea Vandeth and Dr. Kem Reat Viseth, visited high schools and colleges in Vientiane to get an idea about the educational methods in Laos. AUPP met with various founders, owners, directors, teachers, and students about future collaboration between Cambodia and Laos in order to nurture full development into the ASEAN Economic Integration.

Dr. Sharon Siverts stated that “full cooperation is necessary between the countries of Southeast Asia in order to create a stable and successful marketplace.” She went on to say that education is the necessary starting point.

AUPP also had the honor of meeting the Deputy Minister of Education and Sports of the Lao PDR. AUPP spoke with the Deputy Minister about various opportunities including study abroad programs, transfer opportunities, scholarship collaboration, and more in order to improve the quality of the educated youth graduating from their university of choice.

The visit was successful in gathering people together to create a strong platform to further educational opportunities in the future. AUPP continues to serve the public interests by creating partnerships in the private and public sectors in order to strengthen the youth for the future of the ASEAN region.
What’s on the Cambodian Prime Minister’s Facebook Page?
Date: 2015-09-04T16:50:00

The Prime Minister’s Facebook page is drawing public attention through news posts and amazing photos including the sweet, memorable photos of Samdech and the First Lady.

If you visit the page of Samdech Hun Sen, Cambodian Prime Minister, you will notice the Prime Minister’s messages conveyed to the public in addition to the speeches and keynote addresses in various public forums, both national and international.

The most interesting thing is that the Prime Minister’s messages mostly focus on the country’s development, depicting the importance of peace through airborne images of tourist attractions, sport events, and education.

Concerning education, the Prime Minister has paid special attention to the establishment of American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP), hoping that the university will provide quality human resource training in Cambodia.

“We hope that the cooperation between AUPP and American universities will promote the confidence and the strengthening of higher education in Cambodia”, Hun Sen said.

The Prime Minister’s message coincides with the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the AUPP’s new campus that was held on August 29.

Dr. James West, Vice President for the Academic and Student Affair of AUPP, said that he really appreciates that Samdech Hun Sen pays special attention to education, and through the support of the Royal Government, AUPP will further strengthen the quality of education for Cambodian youth.

Dr James West also thanks Samdech Hun Sen for congratulating the new campus of AUPP, which is the leading international university in Cambodia, and appeals for continued support from him.
New Partnership. Better Future.
Date: 2015-08-28T16:52:00

Leaders from American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP) and California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) met on Friday, August 28, to sign a partnership agreement for use of American Language Institute (ALI). AUPP was represented at the signing ceremony by Administration, Faculty, and Staff members including:

Dr. Sharon Siverts, President, AUPP.

Dr. James West, Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs, AUPP.

Dr. Julia Saurazas, Vice President of Finance and Administration, AUPP.

Dr. Jacquelyn Armitage, Member of Board of Trustees, AUPP.

Mr. Puy Kea, Member of Board of Trustees, AUPP.

Mr. Kenneth Dunn, Founding Member, AUPP.

CSULB was represented by:

Dr. Jane Close Conoley, President, CSULB.

Dr. Jeet Joshee, Associate Vice Presidents and Dean, CSULB.

In the agreement, AUPP will work in collaboration with CSULB to bring ALI courses from CSULB to AUPP. ALI will replace AUPP’s English Preparatory Program (EPP) as a means to give students in Cambodia English Language training in preparation for AUPP’s English-based curriculum. ALI has also been designed specifically for Cambodia and the ASEAN region. ALI at AUPP remains academically equivalent to ALI in CSULB.

Dr. Jane Close Conoley stated during the signing that “Although many thousands of miles from Cambodia, AUPP and California State University, Long Beach share a passion for quality and excellent teaching. Our partnership will further both campus’ international goals.”

Collaborative projects between CSULB and AUPP have been discussed since early 2014. This agreement is the culmination of over one year’s effort to bring higher quality education to Cambodia and its students.

“We look forward to a strong partnership with CSULB, not only with this program, but with other opportunities that serve the mission of both institutions.” stated Dr. Sharon Siverts.

AUPP provides the best for Cambodia and its students by seeking collaboration with high quality education providers around the world. It is through events such as this that we help skilled students and teachers meet in classrooms devoted to multinational and multicultural education.
AUPP: A University of Choice
Date: 2015-08-27T16:53:00

It is not a surprise that Cambodian students are thinking of taking their education studies abroad after high school, considering it as a better choice with better education standards, but the perception is now changing.

Students are now seeking universities in Cambodia, but are looking for the same quality education as they would receive overseas.

Len Sievlan, a second year student at the American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP) said prior to coming to study at AUPP, she was thinking of pursuing her studies abroad, believing good education could only be obtained there.

“I thought good education was only available abroad however AUPP has proven me wrong, and coming to AUPP has changed my life,” she said.

Sievlan who is majoring in Global Affairs at AUPP said, “Now, I am walking a very different path for my future. I have moved from a path with limited career opportunities to one with unlimited future prospects. From unclear goals to a clear direction with planned outcomes, all with the guidance of AUPPs experienced faculty and student councilors.”

Echoing Sievlan’s praise, Kaknika Lin who spent a number of years studying in Singapore was actually preparing to attend the Manchester University in England, but, after visiting AUPP at their campus, made the decision to come to AUPP based on the quality of the faculty and the dedication of all the staff she met there.

Kaknika, who is a third-year Law student, said there is no difference from what she was learning in Singapore to what she is learning at AUPP but she gains more by being here in her own country and where she can experienced an American-style education and save money for her family by not having the additional costs and expenses associated with learning overseas.

“Courses at AUPP allow me to learn about the world through many perspectives and with the benefit of learning and experiencing more about Cambodia. If I had attended a University overseas, I wouldn’t be able to gain hands-on knowledge and experience about my own country at the same time,” she said.

“I realized that this is especially important for my subject, Law, where it will benefit my future career in many ways. I am more knowledgeable on the current events in Cambodia and due to the experience of studying with AUPP, I can also direct my career to have international focus,” she added.

More importantly, she claimed, studying at AUPP saves her family from spending thousands of dollars for additional tuition fees and living expenses while she gets the same knowledge and education quality as if she studied abroad.

Just two years after it was established, AUPP has already become the university of choice not only for Cambodians, but also for a number of foreign students who now study there.
United States Universities Welcome Cambodian Students
Date: 2015-08-24T16:54:00

The people of Cambodia are proud that universities in the United States have finally allowed the direct transfer of Cambodian students to their campuses.

This year, the University of Massachusetts, Lowell has admitted six students from American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP). The partnership between the two universities is accomplished through a 2+2 program. Cambodian students study at AUPP for two years and then are able to transfer directly to the American campus where they finish their last two years of study.

Dr. James West, Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs at AUPP, said it is because of the American Style education students receive in Phnom Penh that universities in the US are willing to accept Cambodian students.

AUPP provides opportunities for Cambodian students to get an excellent education without all of the associated overseas costs and without leaving home. AUPP is also aiding Cambodian students by offering students loans of up to 60%, which are paid back when the student’s starts work after graduation, and over one hundred Trustees’ Scholarships. AUPP is a nonprofit university which provides the highest quality, university education in Cambodia, and puts the future of its students and Cambodia before profit.
Learn Now. Pay Later. Two new ways to enter AUPP.
Date: 2015-08-20T16:55:00

The new AUPP loan program is available for 2015 high school leavers who score an A, B, or C on the National High School Leavers Examination, but do not qualify for a financial need based scholarship, yet want to attend AUPP.

According to Dr. Sharon Siverts, President of AUPP, this loan program is one-of-a-kind for students entering AUPP in October 2015. A student can acquire a loan for up to 60% of the cost of tuition per semester, subject to University Loan Criteria, paying only 40% of the semester tuition. A loan can be of a lesser amount. The tuition per semester at AUPP is $4500. If one borrowed the full 60% ($2700) per semester, one would only pay $1800 a semester. In addition, a student would be required to pay 5% interest on the amount borrowed per year.

The total amount of the loan borrowed would be due and payable only after graduation, and once the student is employed.

Many students desire to study abroad. Students can get the same high quality education at AUPP as they would in the US, at a fraction of the cost. In the US, annual tuition can run up to over $40,000 a year, without airfare, housing, food, textbooks and other costs included. Most student in the US must also receive student loans in order to afford university education.

Most US students apply for scholarships, which are also available at AUPP. This year, AUPP is offering 120 Trustees Scholarships to 2015 high school leavers who pass the National School Leaver’s Examination with a score of A or B. All scholarships students must demonstrate financial need.

There will be 30 full tuition scholarships for four years, or for five years if the student requires training of English language skills. These scholarships are worth $9,000 a year.

The remaining scholarships will be for tuition reduction. 30 scholarships will reduce tuition by $6,000 a year, with the student only paying $3,000 per year for each year of undergraduate study. 30 scholarships will reduce tuition by $4,000 per year, with the student only paying $5,000 a year for each year of undergraduate study. Finally, 30 scholarships will reduce tuition by $2,000 per year, with the student only paying $7,000 for each year of undergraduate study.

There are so many opportunities for students in Cambodia to earn an education that can be used worldwide. AUPP wants you to be educated and become successful.
Largest University Campus in Cambodia Will Begin Construction Later This Month
Date: 2015-08-14T16:45:00

American University Phnom Penh (AUPP) is set to begin construction of the largest university campus in Cambodia later this month in order to accommodate an increasing number of students.

Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports, H.E. Hang Chuon Naron, together with Dr. Jane Close Conoley, President of California State University, Long Beach, as well as other American educators and foreign diplomats, will preside over the Groundbreaking Ceremony that will be held on Saturday, August 29th.

Recently, Dr. James West, Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs at AUPP, said that the construction of the new five story and 20,000 square meters buildings will be constructed on nearly seven hectares of land. The university buildings will be equipped with high tech facilities that will provide the most modern standards of American architectural classrooms for higher education.

According to Dr. West, the new AUPP campus, scheduled to be completed next year, will provide all Cambodian students with the opportunity to receive an excellent American education right here in Phnom Penh.

Courses taken at AUPP will transfer to universities in the United States if a student decides to study in America. Dr. West added that “the university is committed to providing scholarships and an outstanding education to all Cambodian students. AUPP teaches today’s students to be tomorrow’s leaders so we can all work together to help Cambodia grow in the global market place.”
AUPP Students are as Good as those Studying in US, says US Veteran Professor
Date: 2015-08-10T16:56:00

An American, veteran professor, who has spent more than fifty years teaching and educating students in the United States, said he was very impressed with the performance and commitment of the students studying at American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP).

Dr. William Heidcamp said, “I have had more than fifty years of teaching university students in the United States and in other countries and the AUPP students are as good as any I have ever met, and they work harder than most.”

After working for nearly a year at AUPP, Dr. Heidcamp is returning to his home in Minnesota. He said he was proud of the way AUPP gives the highest priority to each student’s education.

“AUPP personnel, in particular, are dedicated to the education and success of the students and work tirelessly and loyally for the benefit of those students,” he emphasized.

Dr. Heidcamp anticipates that AUPP’s students will become successful and play a crucial role nationally, regionally and globally.

“I fully expect our students to become leaders, in every sense of the word, by combining traditional culture with the global perspective in their curriculum,” he said.

He added that AUPP was unique in terms of curriculum and the fact that it is an American education university in Cambodia. He said the University is the best in Cambodia and is unique in helping keep the traditional culture of Cambodia while instilling a sense of social responsibility.
Dr. Janet Steele to Present the Essential Topics of Politics and the Media, and How They Intertwine
Date: 2015-08-05T16:59:00

Dr. Janet Steele, author of “Wars Within: The Story of Tempo, an Independent Magazine in Soehartos Indonesia” and Associate Professor of Journalism at the School of Media and Public Affairs at George Washington University, will visit AUPP and discuss culture, politics, media, and the relationship between them.

Her book focuses on Tempo magazine and its relationship to the politics and culture of New Order Indonesia. She was awarded two Fulbright teaching and research grants, and has served as a State Department speaker-specialist in Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, the Philippines, East Timor, Taiwan, Burma, Sudan, Egypt, India, and Bangladesh.

She is the author of numerous articles on journalism theory and practice. Her most recent book, Email Dari Amerika [Email from America], is a collection of newspaper columns written in Indonesian and originally published in the newspaper Surya.

AUPP is excited to host Dr. Janet Steele, and is opening up her discussion to the public. For those interested in visiting AUPP for the event, please contact us and reserve your seat. Space is limited, so priority is first-come, first-served.

10 August 2015 – 2:00pm

American University of Phnom Penh

No. 50 Street 315, Boeung Kok II, Toul Kork, Phnom Penh
Reservation:
Phone: 023 990 023
Email: info@aupp.edu.kh
AUPP Received Contribution to its Resource Center
Date: 2015-08-04T16:48:00

AUPP is pleased to receive a book donation from the Asia Foundation. These books are a generous gift, part of the “Books for Asia” project. The gift was presented to AUPP by Kampuchean Action for Primary Education (KAPE), an affiliate of the Asia Foundation that assists with coordination and distribution of gift books in Cambodia.

The donation consists of more than 120 academic books that will be added to the AUPP Library collection. These books are a valued addition to the library collection, and will be excellent resources for students and faculty at AUPP. With these books, students will have more resources to complete their projects, papers, and research; they will enrich students’ knowledge and enhance student learning!
AUPP Provides Real World Experience Through Internships and Study Abroad Programs
Date: 2015-08-03T16:15:00

Dr. Siverts stated, “We work hard to give students a breadth of experience, not just on campus and in class, but in the real world so they are applying the learning.”

After earning a Bachelor’s Degree, it is necessary to have experience, coupled with knowledge of your desired skill or craft, in order to get hired in this increasingly globalized work environment. At AUPP, we offer the experience and knowledge needed to start a career in Cambodia and throughout the world. The education at AUPP will prepare you for, and enable you to, work in the global marketplace directly after earning your degree.

To read more about internships and study abroad opportunities, please visit AUPP’s Program Model page and explore the possibilities through our majors, Business, Law, Global Affairs, and IT Management.

Dr. Sharon Siverts
President
American University of Phnom Penh

Find the full article on The Phnom Penh Post’s webpage or in their issue from Friday, July 31, 2015.
Do you want to inquire further about AUPP? If you do, please come!
Date: 2015-07-31T15:39:00

We are holding a Special Information Session on August 4, 2015 from 2-4pm at the AUPP Campus.

You will meet AUPP Management, Faculty, Students and Administrators.
The Session will cover: American Education, Class Activities, Faculty, Student Clubs and other student engagements.

In the meantime, two of the 11 A-grader students of 2014, who have enrolled at AUPP, will share their respective experiences on their significant academic achievements as well as how they succeeded in preparing themselves for the national exam last year, a sharing of experiences that could be helpful to those students preparing for this upcoming national exam.

AUPP offers scholarships and is the first university in Cambodia to provide study-loans to potential students.

High school students and parents are welcome.

Please reserve your seats by 12 noon on August 4, 2015 by contacting us through:

info@aupp.edu.kh , 023 990 023, 012 898 124 or 078 628 441

Hope to see you on Campus!
Students Immerse Themselves in the “Arts and Culture” of Phnom Penh
Date: 2015-07-27T15:41:00

Dr. Theresa deLangis, Professor of Humanities at AUPP, toured the city of Phnom Penh with her classes of “Art and Culture.” They visited many sights including Wat Phnom, the National Museum, the Royal University of Fine Arts (RUFA), SaSa Basaac Gallery, Independence Monument, the Van Nath Gallery at the Toul Sleng Museum, Wat Langka, Romeet Galley, and, finally, Meta House for a documentary.

The tour lasted the entire day on Thursday, July 23rd. Students observed and studied the various types of art and participated in meditation and cyclo tours.

Students’ opinions about the trip were positive. Some students stated that learning about the arts and culture of the city in class is interesting, but it can only be truly understood when immersing onerself in the culture. One student said, “I have traveled to these place many times, but I never realized how much was there I had not seen before. There is so much to see if you look hard enough.”

AUPP offers many opportunities for students and professors to not only learn new things, but experience them. The environment at AUPP facilitates growth and knowledge through communication between a diverse family of faculty, staff, and students.
AUPP: First University in Cambodia to Provide Education Loans to Students
Date: 2015-07-15T16:19:00

It is not unusual that loans are available for real estate and personal property from lending institutions at market interest rates. It is news when a University develops a low-interest loan program for students who want to get an education but lacks the financial resources to do so, or does not qualify for a scholarship.

The new AUPP loan program is available for 2015 high school leavers who score an A, B, or C on the National High School Leavers Examination but do not qualify for a financial need based scholarship, yet want to attend AUPP.

According to Dr. Sharon Siverts, President of AUPP, this loan program is one-of-a-kind for students entering AUPP in October 2015. A student can acquire a loan for up to 60% of the cost of tuition per semester, subject to University Loan Criteria, paying only 40% of the semester tuition. A loan can be of a lesser amount. The tuition per semester at AUPP is $4500. If one borrowed the full 60% ($2700) per semester, one would only pay $1800 a semester. In addition, a student would be required to pay 5% interest on the amount borrowed per year.

The total amount of the loan borrowed would be due and payable only after graduation, and once the student is employed. The payback would be 50% of the monthly salary to the University until the loan is repaid.

Dr. Siverts continues, “This is the most generous loan program that I have seen in all my years in higher education. This loan program allows qualified students to attend AUPP. AUPP is committed to give the youth of Cambodia an opportunity to acquire a high quality education in Cambodia, equivalent to that of the U.S. at a fraction of the cost of going to school in the U.S.”

AUPP offers Bachelor degree programs in Law, Global Affairs, Information Technology Management and Business. The goal of all programs is to prepare students to be global citizens, with the critical thinking, analytical and teamwork skills needed by the public and private sectors. AUPP provides a strong foundation in the humanities, social and natural sciences for students to be leaders in their profession, whether in Cambodia, the Southeast Asian region or the world. AUPP offers all its programs in English, thus, improving the competitiveness of graduates within the ASEAN region.
Study Shows 60% of Cambodian Students Choose Majors Based on Personal Interest
Date: 2015-07-01T16:01:00

A new survey was conducted on subject or major of studies to be chosen by Cambodian students following their high schools. It showed that some 60 percent of students chose their major based on their personal interest rather than the market demand.

The survey, which was jointly conducted by students from University of Massachusetts Lowell (UML) in the United States, and students from American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP), showed that only about 30 percent of the students chose their major based on the market demand for employment while the majority, 60 percent, of them chose their major based on their personal interest.

Dr. George Chigas, a UML professor of World Languages and Cultures who is conducting a study abroad program as part of the AUPP-UML partnership, said that during the month of June 2015, five research teams comprised of AUPP and UML students interviewed over 100 students from 15 different Cambodian youth organizations and universities.

The finding also suggested that about half of the students could name more than two jobs that would be relevant to their major, while the other half was only able to identify one or two jobs.

“In general, the preliminary findings indicate that Cambodian youth do not have a very clear or accurate perception about the job market or job availability,” Dr. Chigas said.

Dr. Chigas, however, said this study is only a pilot project that will help design all stakeholders in Cambodia to a full-scale project on youth education and employment in the coming year, and he said the finding will be of interest to the Ministry or Education, Youth and Sports as it works to revise and improve Cambodia’s system of education.

With the finding in hand, Dr. Chigas led more than a dozen students from AUPP and UML to the Ministry of Environment to meet with Minister Say Samal in order to discuss their research on Khmer youth.

During their two hour meeting, the students presented some of the findings of their research and received helpful feedback and suggestions from H.E. Say Samal who is also Vice President of the Union of Youth Federation of Cambodia.

H.E. Say Samal encouraged the AUPP-UML team to continue its research efforts and work with Cambodian youth organizations to gather additional data.

While acknowledging these findings are only preliminary, Dr. Chigas suggested that much more research is necessary before any definitive results will be obtained.

AUPP is the leading university in Cambodia with American curriculum, management, and highly qualified and experienced faculty.
American Prof. Chigas, Promoter of Cambodia’s Classic Love Story Tum Teav, is in Phnom Penh
Date: 2015-06-12T16:03:00

Not many Cambodians are aware that an American Professor, Dr. George Chigas, has spent over four years completing a translation of a classic Cambodian, tragic love story, “Tum Teav”, for the purpose of exposing it to the world. Dr. Chigas said “ ‘Tum Teav’ is the tragic love story of a talented, novice monk named Tum and a beautiful adolescent girl named Teav; a showcase of a poor man with true love and compassion.”

He said the story has been told throughout the country since at least the middle of the 19th century. The story is considered the “Cambodian Romeo and Juliet” and has been a compulsory part of the Cambodian secondary national curriculum since the 1950s. There are numerous versions of the story in every major genre of Cambodian literature.

Although the first translation in French had been made by Étienne Aymonier in 1880, “Tum Teav” was popularized abroad when Dr. Chigas created the 252-page English translation of the 1915 literary version. The 1915 version was written by the venerable Buddhist monk Preah Botumthera Som or Padumatthera Som, also known as Som, one of the best writers in the Khmer language.

Dr. Chigas said he became interested in “Tum Teav” as a graduate student. When he asked his Khmer literature teacher what book was the most important book for him to study in Cambodian literature, his teacher quickly replied, “ ‘Tum Teav!’ If you want to understand Cambodian culture, you must read the story of ‘Tum Teav!’ ”

Dr. Chigas is in Phnom Penh for one month, leading four students from University of Massachusetts, Lowell (UML) for an exchange program with students of American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP).

Dr. George Chigas is a professor of Cambodian language and culture in the Department of World Languages and Cultures at UML. While staying in Phnom Penh with his students from UML and working with AUPP students, Dr. Chigas said he’s extremely impressed by the quality of students studying at AUPP.

Dr. Chigas said, “They are very intelligent, hardworking and serious students. I believe they represent the best of the best in Cambodia and surely will play important roles in the future development of the country. They are fortunate to study at AUPP where they can develop their talents and skills to their fullest potential.”
Pov Sothearea: “AUPP Has Changed My Life”
Date: 2015-06-11T16:21:00

Pov Sothearea could hardly believe the news when she was first informed that she would receive a full-tuition scholarship to the American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP).

“Education is important, but a high quality university is much more important,” said 18-year-old Sothearea, who is a freshman student at AUPP.

Sothearea, who studied at Tuol Tumpoung High School before being admitted to AUPP, said, “At first, I thought that the National Examination was very challenging, but now I realize that studying in AUPP is much more challenging because students here have to have creativity, leadership and intelligence.”

Sothearea said studying with PhD professors at AUPP provides her the same quality education she would get studying abroad.

“New experiences that I have gotten from AUPP make me become a new person who can understand about life direction and social issues,” she said.

She added that not only does AUPP offer an excellent education, it also provides opportunities to students who could not otherwise afford to attend a high quality university.

When asked if she is ready to compete with students from other ASEAN member states, Sothearea said, “The most important thing for Cambodian students is to take advantage of the educational opportunities available.”

“Have you ever asked yourself, ‘Am I getting good education? Am I studying in the right major? And am I studying in a good university that can help me to build my capacity to compete with other countries?’ ” she enquired.

For students that cannot afford a university education without financial assistance, a scholarship to AUPP is a dream come true.

“It is hard to believe that I can have a scholarship to study in one of the best universities in Cambodia,” Sothearea said. “AUPP has changed my life.”
American University of Phnom Penh and Ohio University Collaborate on Community Outreach Projects
Date: 2015-06-02T16:20:00

Students from the American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP) and Ohio University recently collaborated on a series of projects focused on the development of leadership skills through community outreach. The students worked together with local and international organizations including Action Aid, Cambodian Living Arts, Cambodian Development Resource Institute, Enrich Institute, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and World Fish.

Throughout the past semester, AUPP students and their counterparts from Ohio University, a university in the Midwest region of the United States, participated in concurrent Leadership courses at their respective institutions. The students communicated regularly via Skype and email to conduct research and develop plans for their final projects.

After working together remotely all semester, the course concluded with the Ohio University students coming to Cambodia to conduct field work and present final presentations with the AUPP students. The projects provided a valuable opportunity for students from both universities to gain real world experience in a cross-cultural environment while giving back to the community in Phnom Penh.

Vannaroth Lim, a third year Business major at AUPP, said, “Everybody was very open-minded and we had the chance to share different perspectives. There was a lot of discussion and compromise, and we all learned a lot from each other.”

Lim’s group conducted interviews and surveys with the staff at the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and provided recommendations for improving the management and operations of the museum. “Not only did I learn a lot about my own country’s history,” Lim said, “We figured out a way to contribute to the preservation of Khmer culture while at the same time learning how to effectively run a business.”

AUPP believes in providing its students with opportunities to interact with scholars and experts from around the world. Collaborative projects with international universities, guest lectures from leading experts, and internships with prominent businesses and organizations help to build the cross-cultural skills that university graduates need to be competitive in today’s global market.
Dr. Bryan Mac Lean Joins AUPP as Director of Quality Assurance
Date: 2015-05-21T15:36:00

Dr. Bryan MacLean is the American University of Phnom Penh’s (AUPP) new Director of Quality Assurance. He also holds an appointment as Associate Professor in the Life Science Department. Dr. MacLean comes to AUPP by way of Alaska where he has over 25 plus years of experience in higher education and public sector community development.

Dr. MacLean received his Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Waikato New Zealand, a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University, and undergraduate degrees in Natural Resources and Wildlife Management from the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

Dr. Mac Lean’s diverse background reflects his interest in and involvement in the international arena with indigenous education and development. Dr.Mac Lean has served as an instructor and senior level administrator for tribal colleges, universities, and polytechnics in Alaska, New Zealand, and Saudi Arabia. He has also facilitated numerous community development and human potential workshops, retreats, and training sessions with indigenous groups and tribal organizations in Alaska, Hawaii, New Zealand, Denmark, Greenland, and Rapa Nui.

Dr. Mac Lean’s considerable experience in institutional effectiveness, quality assurance, and policy development, is grounded in a strong teaching and research background. He has held research appointments at the University of Waikato’s Center for Maorri Studies and Research, the University of Alaska Fairbanks’ Center for Cross-Cultural Studies; and Te Wanaga o Aotearoa’s Centre for Applied Research. Prior to pursuing his interest in higher education, Dr. Mac Lean was actively involved in the public sector as a City Manager, Regional Coastal Management Director, and as an education/community development consultant to indigenous groups and tribal organizations in Alaska, New Zealand, and Rapa Nui.
Former Senior Economic Secretary to the President of South Korea Speaks at AUPP
Date: 2015-05-12T15:19:00

Dr. Won-Dong Cho, former Senior Economic Secretary to the President of South Korea, addressed AUPP students and faculty last week. The topic of his discussion was “The Rise and Fall of Korean Corporations”.

Dr. Cho began by comparing and contrasting the development of the Korean economy to that of Taiwan. He went on to discuss various theories explaining the rapid economic growth in Korea and the factors that led to the rise and fall of some of the nation’s largest corporations. Having played a significant role in the development of Korean economic policy, Dr. Cho was able to provide valuable insight into the government’s strategy throughout this process.

Dr. Cho served as a career diplomat for most of his professional life. His appointments include Senior Economic Secretary to President Park Geun-hye, Secretary General to the Prime Minister, and numerous positions in the Ministry of Finance and Economy.

In addition to his work in the public sector, Dr. Cho has also worked for the International Monetary Fund and the Korea Institute of Public Finance.

Dr. Cho completed his undergraduate studies at the Seoul National University and received a Ph.D. in Economics from Oxford University. He is currently a professor at Chung-Ang University.
AUPP and UMass Lowell Collaborate on Youth Information Project
Date: 2015-04-23T15:30:00

The American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP), in collaboration with UMass Lowell, is participating in a project focused on issues affecting Cambodian development and the role of Cambodian youth in the country’s future.

The Youth Information Project responds to a need for timely and relevant information regarding employment and skills training for Cambodian youth. The project supports the strategic plans of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS) and the Ministry of Labor (MoL) to provide this information. Over 65% of Cambodia’s total population is currently under the age of thirty, and this demographic will play an increasingly important role in shaping the country’s future over the next decade.

In June 2015, students from UMass Lowell, a public university in the northeastern United States, will arrive in Cambodia and enroll in classes at AUPP. The intensive four-week course will deal with youth and youth organizations in Cambodia and their increasingly important role from 1980 until the present.

UMass Lowell and AUPP students will work with Cambodian youth organizations, MoEYS, and MoL to develop a prototype system to enhance existing methods to disseminate employment and skills training information and receive user feedback. The system will utilize cell phone technology in order to be accessible to 90% of Cambodian youth nationwide.

The program provides a unique opportunity for AUPP students to collaborate with their U.S. counterparts on a substantive research project that will benefit the development of Cambodia. AUPP is committed to providing valuable cross-cultural experience to its students via collaborative projects, partnerships with U.S. universities, and study abroad opportunities

Oxfam International will provide technical and logistical support for the project. Oxfam is an international confederation of 17 organizations working together with partners and local communities in more than 90 countries to mobilize citizens in the fight against poverty.
AUPP Professor Discusses National Strategic Disability Plan
Date: 2015-04-16T15:21:00

“Make the Right Real” is the slogan of Cambodia’s Disability Action Council (DAC). This was the theme of a recent Phnom Penh Roundtable featuring AUPP Professor Steve Rosenbaum, a disability and human rights law expert. It was attended by civil society and government representatives at the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans, and Youth Rehabilitation, and facilitated by the US Embassy.

Rosenbaum’s presentation was based on the 2014-18 National Strategic Disability Plan. He emphasized implementation and enforcement strategies under Cambodian law and the related UN disability convention in the areas of accessibility, education and employment. Rosenbaum is planning an outreach event at the US Embassy’s American Center in Hanoi next month.

DAC is the national coordination and advisory mechanism on disability issues established by a Royal Krom in 2009, upon promulgation of Cambodia’s Law on the Protection and the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia is the DAC’s Honorary President.
AUPP Hosts Symposium on ASEAN Economic Integration 2015
Date: 2015-04-10T15:15:00

Scholars, researchers, policymakers, NGOs, and university students gathered at the Toul Kork Center on April 8, 2015 for the ASEAN Economic Integration 2015 symposium.

The goal of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) is to transform ASEAN into a region with free movement of goods, services, investment, skilled labor and a freer flow of capital. While the AEC provides a framework that promises economic benefits for all, many questions remain regarding the implementation of the plan and its impact on the citizens of the ASEAN member nations. These concerns, with a focus on Cambodia in particular, were the topic of discussion at the symposium.

The topic of the first panel discussion was “Broadening Economic Integration: The Mekong Basin and Beyond”. Participants in the discussion included Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, former Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and current Minister Delegate attached to the Prime Minister; Dr. Sok Siphana, Advisor to the Royal Government of Cambodia; and Dr. Mariko Frame, Assistant Professor of Global Affairs (American University of Phnom Penh). The panelists agreed that while Cambodia faces many challenges as it prepares for ASEAN integration, the potential benefits outweigh the risks.

The second panel focused on “A Free Flow of Labor: Disparities in Regional Development”. The panelists, Sophal Chan (Centre for Policy Studies, Cambodian Economic Association) and Vutha Hing (Cambodia Development Resource Institute), engaged in a lively discussion with university students and NGO representatives who attended the event. Vutha Hing emphasized that while there are questions regarding Cambodia’s preparedness for ASEAN integration, these concerns can be mitigated by focusing on implementing modern, international standards in logistics and infrastructure, and by removing administrative barriers that currently place Cambodia at a disadvantage relative to some other ASEAN member states.

The event was co-sponsored by the American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP), Cambodia Development Resource Institute (CDRI), Human Sciences Encounters in Phnom Penh (HSEPP), and Cambodia Economic Association.

AUPP plans to host additional symposia in the future. Such events promote understanding and tolerance of a diversity of beliefs and foster the open exchange of ideas and knowledge, which is one of the University’s core values.
Vietnamese Students to Consider AUPP for University Studies, Says Ambassador
Date: 2015-04-07T15:12:00

While visiting the American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP) on April 3, 2015, the Vietnamese Ambassador to Cambodia said AUPP is considered an exciting program for Vietnamese students, based on the academic performance, location and cost of the university.

Thach Du, ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of Vietnam to Cambodia spent an hour with senior management of AUPP, during which, he was presented with an overview of AUPP by Dr. William Heidcamp, Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. Ambassador Du asked many questions of the management team and was pleased with the answers he received.

Ambassador Du was enthusiastic about AUPP’s high caliber of academic performance and education quality. He said AUPP will be considered as “the next target for Vietnamese students”, citing that many Vietnamese have already chosen overseas studies in Singapore, Australia or the United States for their undergraduate or graduate years. AUPP has many qualities that will appeal to Vietnamese students and their parents.

The Ambassador said Cambodia and Vietnam have had good relations and cooperation in many areas. As neighbors, Cambodia and Vietnam can provide each other with education options. The Ambassador noted that Vietnamese students had nothing to worry about in choosing AUPP for their studies and could be assured of a high quality education. He added that the significance of knowing multiple languages, including Khmer, is another advantage for Vietnamese students.

As enrollment increases, AUPP plans to build on a 7-hectare campus in Phnom Penh. The first academic building is expected to be completed for fall 2016, and it will have a state-of-the-art educational design, developed by a top-ranked group of architects. Additional educational space, sport facilities, and student housing will complement the academic space.

Both Cambodian and foreign students who choose to study at AUPP will gain a competitive advantage to pursue graduate studies (Master or PhD) at universities in the U.S., Canada, Australia, or in the European nations. At the same time, they will enjoy a much lower cost for a four-year Bachelor Degree, when compared to that in Singapore, Australia or the United States, where the cost is three to four times as high as that at AUPP.

AUPP is committed to offering an excellent American education and to preparing students for a competitive global marketplace.
Expert Says Ability to ‘Work in Cross-Cultural Environment’ Required for Future Leaders
Date: 2015-03-27T14:52:00

Dr. Guido Gianasso, a human capital management and leadership development expert, told university students that the ability to lead effectively in a cross-cultural environment is essential to their future success.

Addressing students and faculty at the American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP) last week, Dr. Gianasso spoke about the lessons he learned in his career and offered his observations on the changing nature of our world before answering questions from AUPP students.

Dr. Gianasso emphasized that future leaders must be able to work in a cross-cultural environment. “To survive in today’s business environment, organizations need individuals who are able to navigate the complexities of the global market,” he said.

He observed that AUPP students have a unique opportunity to gain this cross-cultural experience while learning from experienced professors from around the world and studying with peers from Cambodia and abroad.

Dr. Gianasso explained that his career could be separated into three phases and discussed the lessons that he learned from each. As a diplomat, he learned to “look at the big picture” and articulate and communicate his ideas in a cross-cultural setting. As a corporate executive, he learned about the courage and energy a leader needs to execute these ideas while meeting deadlines and being constantly evaluated. As a university professor, he discovered the joy of sharing his knowledge with others and a love of lifelong learning.

Dr. Gianasso has worked for the World Bank, United Nations and several leading multi-national corporations in the Financial and Chemical industries. From 2003 to 2013 Guido Gianasso was the IATA’s Vice President of Human Capital. He is currently Chief Human Resources Officer and member of the Executive Committee at SICPA, a privately owned company providing secured identification, traceability and authentication solutions and services. Dr. Gianasso is also an adjunct professor at Nanyang Business School in Singapore.
ASEAN Economic Integration 2015 Symposium
Date: 2015-03-23T14:51:00

Scholars, researchers, policymakers, civil society, NGOs, and university students are invited to attend a symposium on ASEAN Economic Integration on Wednesday, April 8, from 2:00PM to 6:00PM at the Toul Kork Center, No. 51, Street 315.

The goal of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) is to transform ASEAN into a region with free movement of goods, services, investment, skilled labor, and a freer flow of capital. The symposium will cover these issues, including panel discussions on “Broadening Economic Integration: The Mekong Basin and Beyond” and “A Free Flow of Labor: Disparities in Regional Development”. The complete symposium agenda is available here in PDF format.

The symposium is sponsored by the American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP), the Cambodia Development Resource Institute (CDRI), and Human Sciences Encounters in Phnom Penh (HSEPP). The conference is open to the public and entrance is free, but please reserve a seat by sending an email to info@aupp.edu.kh .