Education environment transformation: ABA renovates Samdech Ov High School in Sihanoukville
03/Jun/2026
In the heart of Sihanoukville Province, Samdech Ov High School has long stood as a place of learning for generations of families. Its classrooms have welcomed countless students from many walks of life. Yet, with time, the buildings began to show their age – walls faded, paint peeled, and the atmosphere became less inspiring for students and teachers alike.
This May, things began to change. With support from ABA Bank, two of the school's buildings – comprising 11 classrooms – were renovated and repainted inside and out. Roofs were sprayed with a new layer of paint, while windows and doors were refreshed to give the school a fresher look. The transformation was simple yet impactful: brighter walls, cleaner spaces, and a fresher environment where students can thrive and grow.
Ly Bunheang, a student at Samdech Ov High School stated, "Before, the classrooms were old and the walls were peeling, so it didn't feel like a good place to learn. Now that the renovation is complete, it is more comfortable to sit in class. My friends and I can better focus on our lessons."
On May 28, the handover ceremony was presided over by Samuth Sothearith, Deputy Governor of Sihanoukville, alongside representatives from ABA Bank, the school principal, teachers, and students, totaling 170 attendees.
Beyond formalities, students and staff also engaged in hands-on activities, from painting murals on the building's wall to cleaning the school grounds, fostering a sense of responsibility and community. As a gesture of encouragement, each student also received a stationery kit to support their learning needs.
Preap Sopheap, ABA Bank's West Region Director, commented, "Education is the foundation of every nation's growth, because it develops the human resources needed to thrive. And education only flourishes when students feel safe and inspired in their surroundings."
"The renovation of Samdech Ov High School is exactly that – an investment in creating a welcoming environment that gives the next generation the right foundation to succeed," he added.
From one school renovation project to the next, this initiative reflects the Bank's broader commitment to corporate social responsibility. By improving access to quality education, ABA continues to support young Cambodians, ensuring every student can reach their fullest potential.
