In the past few years, electricity has reached more rural villages in Cambodia, and schools and community facilities increasingly rely on electrical systems for lighting, water pumps, and equipment. While this brings many benefits, it also introduces new safety risks, such as exposed wiring, overloaded systems, and limited knowledge of safe electrical use and maintenance. These risks can lead to accidents, injuries, and damage to essential infrastructure – especially in schools, where children are present every day.
To help address these growing challenges, TGF supported a one-day training on Electrical Safety, Protection Systems, and Equipment Maintenance at O-Samaki Primary School. The training brought together 31 participants from 8 schools and 2 community piped water systems, including school principals, lead teachers, and water committee members.
Led by certified electrician Pheap Sophan, the session combined practical demonstrations with basic theory to help participants better understand electrical risks and safe installation practices. Key topics included the safe use of electrical appliances, emergency response to electric shocks, correct wiring techniques, and routine maintenance of electrical systems and equipment.
To measure learning outcomes, participants completed pre- and post-training assessments. Results showed significant improvements across all topics, with post-test scores reaching 85–90%, compared to much lower baseline knowledge. The biggest learning gains were seen in identifying electrical explosion hazards and responding to emergency situations.
Participants rated the training as highly relevant and practical. This activity also reflects TGF’s broader commitment to community health and safety, ensuring that new developments – such as expanded access to electricity – improve lives without creating new risks. TGF will continue supporting capacity-building activities like this to help schools and communities create safer environments for students, staff, and families.
