You walk through the bustling corridors of Cambodia’s first British university campus, where the sounds of international education blend with the ambitious hum of a nation building its future. Here in Koh Pich, Phnom Penh, we’re witnessing something remarkable unfold—a partnership that promises to reshape how students bridge the gap between academic theory and professional reality.
British University De Montfort Partners with OCIC to Grow Academic Opportunities for Students
Catalyst
In August 2025, a pivotal moment arrived when two educational powerhouses decided to join forces. The Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with De Montfort University (DMU) Cambodia, marking a significant milestone for Cambodia’s educational landscape. The agreement was formalized by OCIC Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Ang Enghuy, and DMU Cambodia Executive President, Sakina Zafar, setting the stage for transformative change.
This strategic alliance emerged from a shared vision: creating meaningful pathways between academic excellence and professional success. Meanwhile, DMU had already established itself as a pioneer by opening its Cambodian campus in Koh Pich in 2024, bringing UK-accredited degrees to Southeast Asia and offering programs like their prestigious Global MBA.
Rising Action
The partnership immediately opened doors to unprecedented opportunities for students. Under this collaboration, DMU Cambodia students gained access to internships, career events, and professional exposure within OCIC’s extensive business network. These placements span diverse sectors including real estate, infrastructure, healthcare, education, finance, and digital media—creating a comprehensive ecosystem for practical learning.
Suddenly, students found themselves with direct pathways to hands-on experience in sectors directly linked to their fields of study. The collaboration was designed to equip them with practical skills, industry insights, and professional networks essential for exploring future career paths. As the partnership took shape, it became clear that this wasn’t just about internships—it was about fundamentally transforming how education connects with industry.
Turning Point
The real breakthrough came when both leaders articulated their shared vision for Cambodia’s educational future.
“We are excited to collaborate with OCIC to create meaningful opportunities for our students. This partnership bridges academic learning with real-world application, and we believe it will greatly enhance our students’ readiness for the job market, both in Cambodia and internationally,” said Sakina Zafar, Executive President of DMU Cambodia.
This sentiment was echoed by OCIC’s leadership, who recognized the broader implications for Cambodia’s development. “The presence of DMU in Koh Pich reflects the dynamic growth of Phnom Penh by bringing international accreditation to Cambodia. With this partnership, OCIC is pleased to contribute to nurturing Cambodia’s talents moving forward,” said Ang Enghuy, Chief Financial Officer of OCIC.
Resolution
The partnership has positioned Koh Pich as an emerging educational powerhouse in Southeast Asia. With institutions like DMU Cambodia, the Canadian International School of Phnom Penh, Ecole Française Internationale, and specialized tech-focused academies including DICHI Academy, Above and Beyond Software Development School, and BSA School at Connexion, the district is rapidly becoming a central hub for education in Phnom Penh.
This diverse educational ecosystem now offers comprehensive learning opportunities for students of all ages, from elementary through graduate studies. The presence of these international institutions reflects the dynamic growth of both Phnom Penh and Cambodia’s commitment to educational excellence on a global scale.
As this partnership continues to evolve, it signals a new era where academic institutions and industry leaders collaborate to create practical pathways for Cambodia’s next generation of professionals. For students considering their educational future, this collaboration represents more than just academic credentials—it’s a gateway to meaningful career opportunities that will shape Cambodia’s economic landscape for years to come.
