Higher education in Cambodia: Engendered, postcolonial Western influences and Asian values

Abstract

This research identifies the external historical influences on higher education in Cambodia and how this has affected local traditional values and socio-cultural perspectives. It provides an overview of the major contemporary Western neoliberal influences in this context. A critical review of the literature explores how traditional values and practices have interacted with these modern external influences. The paper finds that an emerging hybrid model has evolved in post-conflict Cambodia, formed via different development agendas, reflecting a struggle with traditional values, cultural heritage and history. The paper outlines a policy position for higher learning reform reflecting this hybrid model that advocates for traditional cultural, and historical influences to be promoted alongside a drive for modernization.