PUC Education Fair 2026 Inspires Students to Choose Their Path, Build Skills and Prepare for the Future

PHNOM PENH, September 5, 2026 — Pannasastra University of Cambodia (PUC) welcomed around 500 students and members of the public to the PUC Education Fair 2026, providing a dynamic platform for young people to explore higher education, receive academic guidance and better understand the skills needed for future careers.

Held under the theme “Step into Successful Higher Education,” the fair featured more than 20 booths from PUC faculties and industries, along with university and faculty exhibitions, sponsor booths, facility tours, a keynote address and a panel discussion with representatives from education, business, logistics and finanicial services.

In his remarks, Dr. Kol Peng, President of PUC, emphasized that education is not only about gaining knowledge and qualifications, but also about developing good character, strong principles and morality. He encouraged young people to become responsible, ethical and capable citizens by applying the principles of morality,concentration and wisdom in daily life to contribute positively to society.A major highlight was also the dialogue between students and industry representatives on preparing for a rapidly changing labour market.

Mr. Eng Virak of Chip Mong Group highlighted the importance of internships and real-world learning, which help students understand workplace challenges, problem-solving, decision-making and collaboration with customers and business partners. He also stressed strong communication skills, effective use of information and appropriate AI tools, and the importance of developing professional expertise based on one’s own potential.

H.E. Choun Kakada, Professor of Khmer Studies at PUC, encouraged students to make informed decisions when choosing a university and major. He emphasized self-confidence, passion, commitment, critical thinking and personal responsibility, while recognizing the important role of family support. He also highlighted the value of foreign languages in expanding career opportunities, while stressing the importance of the Khmer language to national identity and nation-building. Students were encouraged to remain adaptable, as their first career may not always directly match their university major.

From the logistics and supply chain sector, Mr. Siet Sovanna of LOCSBA explained the growing importance of logistics to Cambodia’s economy and employment market. He encouraged students to develop both technical and soft skills, including communication, foreign languages and digital capabilities. While recognizing the growing role of AI, he reminded students to understand its purpose and select the right technology for the right task.

Mr. Yi Chanreaksmey of KPMG Cambodia and a PUC alumnus highlighted the evolving expectations of employers in accounting, taxation and auditing. Beyond a university degree, students need AI and digital literacy, analytical thinking, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, leadership and presentation skills. He encouraged students to become professionals who can solve problems and create value rather than simply complete assigned tasks. He also emphasized English and other foreign languages and encouraged students to choose fields they genuinely love and are passionate about. Drawing from his own experience, he expressed appreciation for PUC’s role in preparing him with the competencies needed to work successfully in an international professional environment such as KPMG.

Across the discussion, speakers shared a common message: future success depends not only on a degree, but also on skills, character, confidence, adaptability, passion and a commitment to lifelong learning.

The event also demonstrated the importance of stronger university–industry partnerships. Through internships, professional engagement and direct dialogue with employers, students can better understand workplace expectations and connect their academic learning with real-world opportunities.