This is probably because most of the news from Cambodia this year has been good news. Cambodians are celebrating 1999 as the first year for over 30 years in which there has been no fighting anywhere in the country. In May the Government commenced crackdown on illegal weapons by publicly crushing 4000 confiscated guns and announced that the crushed guns would be melted down and made into a statue celebrating peace. Cambodia still needs outside help to get back on its feet and become self-sufficient, and AACF is pleased to be able to make a contribution. In November 1999 a group of AACF volunteers together with MVU faculty members provided training to students and teachers in rural high schools.
Rural schools are under resourced and feel neglected.
The training included English, Science, Employment Advise, and TM meditation. Over 600 students and teachers participated in two schools. In an exam held in November 1999, over 1000 Cambodian high school graduates competed for the 125 new positions available at Maharishi Vedic University for the Year 2000. MVU is the university of choice for many students. Some choose MVU because of the good name of MVU graduates - others for financial reasons.