GAIN Capacity Building Training Programme Successfully Concludes, Strengthening Institutional Capacity for Inclusive Higher Education

Representatives from GAIN partner institutions successfully participated in the GAIN Capacity Building Training Programme, hosted by the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC). The five-day programme equipped participants with practical methods and tools to support systemic change and strengthen inclusive higher education across Cambodia.

The programme commenced with welcome remarks by Mr. Soy Ty, Deputy Director of ITC, followed by a project progress update from Dr. Yos Phanny, GAIN Project Coordinator at ITC. Participants also received remarks from Mr. Bryan Fornari, Head of Cooperation of the European Union Delegation to Cambodia, and opening remarks from H.E. Dr. Sann Vathana, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS).

Throughout the training, participants explored a range of practical methodologies, including PESTLE Analysis, SWOT/TOWS Analysis, Fishbone (Ishikawa) Diagram, Delphi Method, Theory of Change, and SMART Objectives. These tools enabled participants to analyse institutional challenges, identify opportunities, and develop evidence-based strategies for systemic change and inclusive higher education. Practical assignments allowed participants to apply these methodologies within their own institutions and develop context-specific action plans.

As part of the programme, participants completed an online individual assessment consisting of a self-assessment, method-comprehension quiz, and transfer reflection to demonstrate their understanding of the methodologies introduced throughout the training and identify how these approaches could be effectively applied within their respective institutions.

The programme concluded with a Live Closing Session, featuring a recap of the week’s learning, participant presentations, reflections on key lessons, and commitments to implementing the knowledge and skills gained. Participants also joined the Project Results Dissemination Meeting and the Closing Ceremony, celebrating the successful completion of the training and reaffirming the consortium’s shared commitment to advancing inclusive, innovative, and sustainable higher education in Cambodia.

The GAIN consortium extends its sincere appreciation to all participants, trainers, partner institutions, and the European Union for their continued support and collaboration in strengthening institutional capacity and promoting inclusive higher education. Through initiatives such as this capacity-building programme, the GAIN Project continues to foster collaboration, innovation, and sustainable systemic change across Cambodia’s higher education sector.