Phnom Penh, Cambodia - On January 14, 2025, a workshop marked the close of the Toyota Foundation Project, showcasing impact of science, technology and innovation (STI) coordinators on innovation and sustainable development in Cambodia, Thailand, and Japan. This workshop held in Phnom Penh brought together more than 40 key stakeholders to highlight mutual learning and coordination in science, technology, and innovation to inspire ideas, foster connections, and encourage future collaborations.

In his opening address, H.E. Hul Seingheng highlighted the significance of the project and its role in bridging different countries and sectors. "This workshop represents an important step towards coordination among Cambodia, Thailand, and Japan. By having this platform, these countries can enhance capacity development and create effective policies, driving sustainable development and economic growth," said H.E. Hul Seingheng.

The project has focused on developing proficient STI coordinators equipped with essential skills for tailoring socio-economic development plans to be inclusive and sustainable. These coordinators play a critical role in fostering connections between public and private sectors, addressing common social and technical problems through well-trained coordination and effective communication.

H.E. Hul Seingheng emphasized the need for such coordinators, noting, "Currently, connections between public and private sectors are limited, and communities and industries often struggle to find capable scientists and proper technologies to solve problems due to a lack of well-trained coordinators and a training system. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a training system to cultivate more coordinators with professional knowledge and communication skills, and to facilitate dialogue among multi-stakeholders."

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Ms. Yoshiko Miura, Senior Representative of the JICA Cambodia Office, stated, "The collaboration between JICA project and the Toyota Foundation Project highlights the potential of aligning efforts to improve the STI ecosystem in Cambodia. By combining our resources and knowledge, we aim to establish a strong network among government, academia, the private sector, and local communities. This collaboration is important for promoting sustainable development and creating a bi-circular green economy model that can be utilized across the region."

According to Prof. Eij Nawata, director of Kyoto University ASEAN Center, significant milestones were achieved during the project. The project successfully implemented a co-created training course for STI coordination, which enables project members to train early career coordinators effectively at their workplace.

“Additionally, a training module was co-created through mutual learning and implemented for the first time, allowing many organizations and universities to begin training their early career coordinators efficiently at their workplace,” said Prof. Eij Nawata.

The workshop featured a demonstration lecture of the basic course on STI coordination, showcasing practical applications and the benefits of collaborative efforts. The project has also led to a more robust STI ecosystem in Cambodia, with increased collaboration and improved coordination among various stakeholders.

H.E. Hul Seingheng expressed confidence in the project's impact and livability of the platform. "I am confident that today’s discussions and presentations will inspire new ideas, foster deeper connections, and pave the way for future STI endeavors in national innovation system. Let us continue to work together to bridge the gaps between our countries and sectors, and to create a brighter, more innovative future for all."