PHNOM PENH– Following widespread criticism, particularly from former and current top students, the Education Ministry has reversed its decision to suspend the National Outstanding Student Examination.  The Ministry announced the reversal just a week after its initial suspension announcement.

A February 3 letter, signed by Education Minister Hang Chuon Naron, directed education departments nationwide to resume preparations for the exam.  The letter stated that further technical guidance regarding the exam's organization would follow.

Education Spokesperson Khuon Vicheka was unavailable for comment.

Chamroeun HongLeng, a 12th grader at Hun Sen Prey Totueng High School in Kampong Cham province, is thrilled the National Outstanding Student Examination is back on.  He, like many others, was disappointed by the initial suspension.

As a former provincial math champion (he ranked first in Kampong Cham province in 9th grade), HongLeng is now eagerly preparing for this year's competition.

“I think the ministry heard our concerns and realized how important this exam is to us,” he said.

The Ministry's January 27 announcement suspending the 2024-2025 national exam in favor of local competitions for 9th and 12th graders had sparked immediate backlash.  Students and social media users voiced their concerns and dissatisfaction, arguing that the ministry failed to adequately explain its reasoning.

This prestigious exam has been a tradition since the 1980s, with even Prime Minister Hun Manet taking gold in mathematics back in 1993.

Former outstanding student Rainy Sokhonn celebrated the reversal on Facebook, crediting "ethical criticisms" and constructive public feedback for demonstrating the exam's vital role in developing Cambodia's human resources over decades.

He expressed gratitude for the social media campaign where numerous former top students shared their positive experiences.

“Thanks to the ministry for considering, accepting these public comments, and deciding to resume the exam,” he wrote. “Please show your support for the ministry to strengthen the outstanding exam to cultivate more resources in science and technology for future competition in the region.”

The Ministry's decision was met with a mix of reactions on Facebook.  While some users applauded the move and called for increased resources and funding for the exam, others questioned the Ministry's abrupt about-face, suggesting a lack of planning.

Several users urged the ministry to conduct thorough surveys or studies to weigh the pros and cons of different approaches before making decisions.  Some requested expanded prizes for the winners, while others simply and enthusiastically welcomed the exam's reinstatement.

The National Outstanding Student Examination, organized annually by the Ministry of Education aims to improve education quality by awarding certificates, medals, scholarships, and other prizes, according to a sub-decree 137. The prizes are to encourage secondary school students to focus on Khmer literature, mathematics, and science.