Strengthening Cambodia’s digital capacity through training and knowledge exchange: ODC and CADT’s partnership

Since 2022, Open Development Cambodia (ODC) and the Cambodia Academy of Digital Technology (CADT) have worked together to strengthen Cambodia’s digital ecosystem through a long-term partnership focused on capacity building, knowledge exchange, and human resource development. Guided by a shared commitment to supporting Cambodia’s digital transformation, the collaboration has delivered a range of ICT training programs, workshops, conferences, and learning activities that equip civil servants with the knowledge and practical skills needed in an increasingly digital society.

The partnership is built on a shared vision of developing Cambodia’s digital workforce through collaboration. Under the cooperation framework, ODC and CADT jointly develop ICT curricula and training programs for civil servants, exchange expertise and experiences in implementing capacity-building initiatives, organize conferences and workshops, and undertake other activities that contribute to human resource development. Through digital security training, the collaboration also seeks to promote awareness and encourage the responsible adoption of emerging technologies that can enhance public service delivery, digital governance, and innovation across Cambodia.

Since the cooperation began, ODC and CADT have organized a series of training programs that combine technical knowledge with practical application. These activities introduce participants to key topics such as open data, digital governance, geographic information systems (GIS), cybersecurity awareness, data-driven decision-making, and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence. Through interactive lectures, practical exercises, case studies, and discussions, participants are encouraged to develop skills that can be directly applied in their professional responsibilities and everyday work.

Knowledge exchange has been a cornerstone of the partnership. Rather than focusing solely on delivering training, ODC and CADT have created opportunities for civil servants to learn from experienced trainers, exchange perspectives with peers from different government institutions, and discuss practical challenges in applying digital technologies within the public sector. These interactive learning environments strengthen professional networks across government agencies and contribute to building a more digitally capable and collaborative public sector that supports Cambodia’s digital transformation.

Recognizing that digital transformation depends as much on people as it does on technology, the partnership places strong emphasis on human resource development. The training programs aim to build the confidence and competencies of participants to effectively use digital tools, analyze data, and understand emerging technologies in ways that support evidence-based decision-making and improved public services. Through continuous learning opportunities, participants are better equipped to adapt to the rapidly evolving digital landscape while contributing to innovation within their respective institutions.

Over the past several years, the partnership between ODC and CADT has demonstrated the value of sustained collaboration in building Cambodia’s digital capacity. By combining ODC’s expertise in open data and digital governance with CADT’s technical leadership in digital technology and cybersecurity, the two organizations have established a strong foundation for developing skilled human resources and promoting lifelong learning. As Cambodia continues to advance its digital transformation agenda, both organizations remain committed to expanding training opportunities, strengthening knowledge exchange, and empowering individuals with the digital skills needed to build a more inclusive, innovative, and resilient digital future.