SEEDS OF INNOVATION OF A NEW CHAPTER FOR YOEUN YI THROUGH HYDROPONIC FARMING

In the rural landscape surrounding Peus 2 High School, a transformative journey is unfolding through the story of a 10th-grade student named Yoeun Yi. As a direct beneficiary of the English Access Microscholarship Program (ACCESS)—implemented by Kampuchean Action for Primary Education (KAPE) and funded by the U.S. Embassy in Cambodia—Yi is gaining far more than just language proficiency; he is acquiring vital life skills for the 21st century. Amidst rising national concerns over chemical-laden produce and its adverse health effects, hydroponics—the method of growing plants in water instead of soil—has gained significant momentum in Cambodia since 2013. Recognizing this, KAPE integrated modern agricultural training into the curriculum to empower students like Yi with practical, sustainable expertise.

In May 2018, KAPE’s life skills specialists conducted an intensive two-day workshop on hydroponic cabbage cultivation at Peus 2 High School for 40 ACCESS students. For Yi, this was a golden opportunity that exceeded his expectations. He and his classmates were immersed in every stage of the process from seed germination and nutrient solution mixing to daily maintenance and harvesting techniques. The entire cycle, from planting to harvest, takes a mere 25 days. This project shifted Yi’s daily routine; he found himself spending every school break at the bio-garden, meticulously monitoring the water flow and ensuring the precise application of Vitamin A and Vitamin B nutrients during the critical 15-day growth phase. His dedication was driven by a desire to ensure both the quality and safety of the produce.

The positive impact of the ACCESS project became tangible when Yoeun Yi and his team harvested their vibrant, healthy cabbage. The lush green vegetables did more than just provide a nutritious meal for a solidarity lunch among classmates; they became a symbol of self-reliance. By selling a portion of their harvest, the students generated funds to purchase new seeds for the next cycle—with plans to cultivate red mustard greens. This initiative has bestowed upon Yi a profound sense of confidence and a vision for the future. He now dreams of expanding this hydroponic system at his own home, envisioning a small-scale business that can support his family. KAPE’s intervention has successfully planted the seeds of entrepreneurship and healthy living, proving that with the right skills, young Cambodians can take charge of their own destinies.

Yoeun Yi​​ detailed on his quote that "I am incredibly excited and proud to see the cabbage we planted with our own hands growing so beautifully and vibrantly. During every break, I make sure to check on them because I want to ensure the water system is perfect and that the Vitamin A and B levels we added are technically sound. Learning hydroponics has given me more than just safe food; it has provided me with hope and a concrete skill set to start my own home business and support my family in the future."

Yoeun Yi continuously said that "This hydroponic training has given me more than just food to eat; it is a bridge that allows me to pursue a small business with confidence."