World Issues
About Cambodia: Cambodia is now a peaceful place, but its people, social structures, and institutions remain deeply scarred by the turbulence of its recent past. Sadly, societal dislocation and poverty continue to exact a serious toll, particularly on children. The international community has stepped forward to create programs in education, health care, family services, cultural reconnection, and combating human trafficking. These efforts provide practical examples of a range of responses to the critical needs of a developing society’s most vulnerable members. By lending a hand with these efforts, participants come to understand fully the challenges Cambodians face, and are able to evaluate the effectiveness of different approaches to assistance.

Phnom Penh: The group begins its visit in Cambodia’s capital, which is clearly in the process of recovering from a recent history filled with turmoil. The spectacular palace and related temple complex reflect an earlier period of prosperity. However, life for many Cambodian families is a daily struggle, with the government providing little support. The people are committed to improving their situation, and their attitude toward foreigners is consistently positive and welcoming. Putney is fortunate to have numerous Cambodian and American contacts in Phnom Penh who support efforts at orphanages, schools, health clinics, AIDS awareness projects, training programs in practical skills, and instruction in traditional arts and music. The group visits these projects and lends a hand in helpful activities. NGO workers and Cambodian activists meet with the group to help them understand what they are seeing and doing.

Siem Reap: After two weeks in the Phnom Penh region, the group travels to Siem Reap, a small city adjacent to the extraordinary ruins of Angkor Wat. Students visit the Angkor Hospital for Children to learn about its work responding to the enormous unmet health care needs in the region. They also assist the monks of the Wat Bo temple in teaching English to local young people, and learn about the work of the Artisans d’Angkor project which trains local people in silk production and traditional stone and wood carving. Students visit their workshops and have an opportunity to talk with the artisans – many of whom are teenagers.

Continued Exploration: In the evenings there is time to discuss and process the experiences of the day, but also to enjoy the richness of Cambodian life. The group attends productions of the extraordinary performing arts and music that are returning to their traditional prominence in Khmer culture. On a weekend visit to Angkor Wat, students explore this enormous complex of ruined temples and palaces.