This week, the Phnom Penh Post reported that despite widespread cheating fewer Cambodian students passed their high school exams this year compared with 2007. The newspaper went on to mention that allegations of widespread bribery during exams lead many to question whether the results reflect students' real capacity.

SCC-sponsored student San studied grade 12 this year, but he, like 29.3% of Cambodia's 55,178 grade 12 students, did not pass his final exam. San reported that 10 of his 25 classmates also failed.  San is a hard-working, motivated student. He also spends his time teaching English to bring in an income that helps support his family. San was disappointed with his test results which were posted last week, but is highly motivated to repeat grade 12 in hope of passing the exam next year. San says he wants to complete his secondary education to make his mother proud and be a good role model for his younger siblings. San dreams of going to university and ultimately becoming a tour guide near the Angkor temples.

SCC's policy is to support students through the repetition of one grade level, if needed, for every three years of study.

San: