Nea Piset, 21, From Pursat Province, lost his father when he was only six years old. Raised by a single mother who struggled to provide, Piset’s early life was filled with uncertainty. “Sometimes I thought I should stop studying and just find work to help my mom,” he says.

When circumstances make the path difficult, access to education can open the door to new possibilities.

But fate took a turn when he was introduced to Passerelles Numériques Cambodia (PNC) by one of its partner organizations, and learned about the scholarship program supported by the Skills Development Fund (SDF). “I was scared to leave home and come to the city,” he recalls. “I didn’t know anyone, and I wasn’t confident speaking or expressing myself.”

The first few weeks were difficult. The rules were strict, and life in Phnom Penh felt overwhelming. But soon, Piset realized the structure and mentorship were exactly what he needed. “The teachers always motivated us,” he says. “They didn’t just teach us lessons; they guided us in life.” PNC’s unique approach, where students live in dormitories with peer leaders and receive continuous mentorship that helped him open up and grow.

“I used to be
shy and quiet, now I can lead, share ideas, and work in a team.
I feel responsible for my own future.”

Over time, Piset became known among his classmates as someone proactive, well-mannered, and dependable. He takes every opportunity to prepare for his future from building relationships with PNC alumni to connecting with companies during career events and company visits.

He has already started exploring potential internship placements for his second year, aiming to put his growing IT knowledge into practice. With each step, he is becoming more confident and career-ready.“Without PNC and SDF, there would be no today’s Piset,” he says with emotion. “They didn’t just give me education; they gave me a chance to believe in myself.”

For more than two decades, PNC has been committed to empowering disadvantaged youth through quality digital education and holistic support. With over 1,800 alumni and an estimated 7,000 lives uplifted from poverty through the ripple effects on graduates and their families, PNC has witnessed the transformative power of education in creating lasting change. Today, 98% of PNC graduates secure employment after graduation, reflecting the quality, relevance, and industry alignment of its training programs. Behind every graduate is a story of resilience, determination, and opportunity. Through the valued support of Skills Development Fund (SDF), more disadvantaged youth have been able to access industry-relevant digital skills training, gain professional experience, and pursue meaningful careers in Cambodia’s growing ICT sector. Together, this partnership is not only transforming individual lives but also helping to build a more inclusive and skilled digital workforce for Cambodia’s future.

These heartfelt words from Thanh Nga, a PNV alumna from the Class of 2019-2022, capture the dreams that inspired her throughout her years as a student. Today, those dreams are no longer distant aspirations. Step by step, the determined young girl has built a stable career, becoming not only financially independent but also a pillar of support for her family.

Family has always been her greatest motivation

Growing up in a difficult family situation and witnessing her mother’s daily sacrifices, Nga treasured every opportunity she was given at PNV. For her, PNV became the door that opened a new future, where the dreams she once kept quietly in her heart finally had a chance to come true.

The first time Nga truly realized that her hard work had made a difference was when she sent her mother money from her very first salary – an amount far beyond what she had ever imagined earning. It was more than the reward for years of dedication and perseverance. It was the moment she knew she could finally help shoulder her mother’s burdens. From then on, her mother no longer had to work as tirelessly as before, while Nga found even greater motivation to keep striving toward the dreams she had set for her family.

After years of holding onto that dream, this year Nga fulfilled one of her biggest wishes: helping her family rebuild their home. For her, this achievement was the happiness of finally giving her mother a safe and comfortable home – a place that would protect her from heavy rains and scorching sunshine while Nga continues pursuing her career far from home.

A strong foundation to thrive wherever life takes her

Today, Nga is based in Ho Chi Minh City, working as an Associate Engineer at NAB Innovation Centre Vietnam. Every experience in a professional environment has reinforced one lesson: a willingness to keep learning and the resilience to overcome challenges are the keys to continuous growth and success. These are also the values that PNV patiently nurtured throughout her student journey.

“Everything PNV taught me became the foundation that helped me secure my internship and eventually my job. I’m truly grateful to PNV for opening a new chapter in my life and giving me the foundation to become independent and support both myself and my family.” – Nga shared.

For Nga, the greatest gift PNV provided was not limited to technical knowledge in Information Technology. It was also the confidence built through English, soft skills, and a professional mindset. From someone who once struggled to pronounce the English alphabet correctly, she has grown into a confident professional working in an international environment – continuing to advance her career while caring for the people she loves.

This is the message Nga hopes to leave with current PNV students: keep learning, keep going, and never let temporary difficulties stop you from pursuing your dreams.

And Nga’s story is just one of many inspiring journeys like this at PNV.

For more than 15 years, Passerelles Numériques Vietnam has empowered hundreds of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to build brighter futures. Every graduate and every milestone – whether big or small – is a reminder that when young people are given an opportunity and choose to persevere, they can overcome their circumstances, shape a better future for themselves, and create lasting, positive change for their families.

The impact of PNV’s IT Training Program goes far beyond graduation. What makes the program truly meaningful is seeing those who once received an opportunity choose to return – becoming the people who connect, support, and create new opportunities for the next generation. For Mạnh, a PNV alumnus from the 2018-2021 cohort and President of the PNV Alumni Association (PNVAA) for the 2022-2026 term, that journey has come full circle. More than a graduate of the program, he is now helping strengthen the alumni community and carrying forward the values that generations of PNV alumni have built together.

Passing forward the values that shaped us

As a student, Mạnh witnessed many alumni return to PNV – not only to share their experiences, but to encourage, mentor, and support the next generations. Having once received that same guidance himself, he knew he wanted to continue the cycle by becoming part of it.

To Mạnh, there has always been a special bond among PNV alumni. Although each person comes from a different background and follows a different path, they all share one thing in common: they were once supported, trusted, and given opportunities by PNV during one of the most uncertain periods of their lives. That shared gratitude and empathy have nurtured a spirit of “Paying it forward” – a value that continues to unite the PNV alumni community today.

Connected by a spirit of giving

Graduating from PNV also marks the beginning of a new chapter – one where every student learns to stand on their own. While PNV and the dedicated staff are there throughout their learning journey, life after graduation often brings new questions about careers and the future. Following in the footsteps of previous PNVAA Presidents, Mạnh hopes to foster a community where those with more experience can guide, mentor, and encourage those taking their first steps.

This spirit also comes to life through the many initiatives organised by the PNV Alumni Association each year. From supporting student selection, providing academic and career guidance, and offering skill development opportunities to organising Tet gift events for current students and alumni networking activities, every initiative shares the same purpose: building a community where generations of PNV students and alumni can support one another and grow together.

“The true value of PNVAA isn’t measured by the number of programs or events we’ve organised. It’s reflected in how we inspire people to support one another and create opportunities for others. That, to me, is the greatest strength of the PNV alumni community.” – Mạnh shared.

Growing a stronger Alumni Community

Looking ahead, Mạnh and the PNVAA leadership team hope to further expand and strengthen the PNV alumni network by connecting PNV graduates across industries and countries. Beyond bringing alumni together, PNVAA aims to become a trusted professional network that empowers both students and alumni through mentoring, knowledge sharing, career guidance, and career opportunities.

Just as building a strong alumni community takes time, every student’s personal journey comes with its own challenges. Yet, Mạnh believes that what matters most is maintaining a willingness to learn, staying committed to one’s goals, and embracing new opportunities with an open mind.

To all current PNV students, Mạnh leaves this message:

And Mạnh’s story is just one of many inspiring journeys like this at PNV.

For more than 15 years, Passerelles Numériques Vietnam has supported hundreds of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in pursuing education and personal growth. Through each generation and every achievement – big or small – one truth becomes clear: when given an opportunity and the courage to keep going, students gradually outgrow their own limits, becoming more confident and ready to embrace experiences they once thought were beyond reach.

After more than three years of closure due to budget constraints, Passerelles Numériques Cambodia (PNC) has officially reopened its System & Network Administration and Cybersecurity (SNA) major. The return of this program comes at a crucial time, as Cambodia’s digital economy continues to grow and the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals rises. More than just reopening a course, this marks a renewed commitment to equipping underprivileged youth with future-ready skills and real career opportunities.

For trainer Mesa Koeun, the decision to reopen the major is both timely and necessary. He has witnessed how quickly technology is transforming workplaces across the country. “Today, almost every organization depends on digital systems,” he explains. “But behind those systems, we need people who can maintain networks and protect them from cyber threats. Without these skills, digital transformation cannot move forward safely.”

Rather than focusing only on theory, the renewed SNA program emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world application. Students start with the basics of networking and operating systems, then gradually build their knowledge toward cybersecurity, cloud services, and system administration. They learn how to set up servers, manage networks, detect potential threats, and respond to incidents all through practical exercises designed to simulate real workplace situations.

For many students, the reopening of the SNA major represents a life-changing opportunity. Amin, a 20-year-old student from Tbong Khmum province, first learned about PNC during a school outreach visit. Coming from an ethnic minority Islamic community, Amin had always been interested in IT, but discovering cybersecurity sparked a deeper motivation.

“I was amazed when I heard about cybersecurity,” he shares. “It feels like protecting something important, and I believe this field has strong job opportunities in Cambodia.” However, his decision was not without concern. Amin recalls that his mother worried about whether he would be able to find a job after graduating from this specialized major. Despite this, he remained confident. “I trust the school,” he says. “PNC has helped many students before, and I believe it will open opportunities for me too.”

Amin also believes that this sector should welcome more women. In his view, careers in cybersecurity and network administration would benefit from being more open and accessible to young women, who fully belong in this rapidly evolving field.

Another student, Sreyla, brings a different but equally inspiring perspective. At just 17 years old, she comes from Banteay Meanchey province and grew up in a challenging economic situation. Her parents had been migrant workers, and recent border tensions forced them to return home. Determined to support her family, Sreyla saw education as her path forward. “I hope that learning IT will help me support my parents and my younger siblings,” she says. Despite entering a male-dominated field, she views this as motivation rather than a barrier.

The reopening of the SNA major is more than just the return of a training program; it is a step toward building Cambodia’s next generation of digital professionals. Through practical learning, mentorship, and holistic support, students like Amin and Sreyla are gaining the skills and confidence needed to pursue meaningful careers.

As Cambodia continues its digital transformation, initiatives like this play a critical role in ensuring that no talented young person is left behind. With continued support from partners and donors, PNC can keep opening doors for underprivileged youth empowering them not only to secure employment, but also to contribute to a safer and more resilient digital future.

At just 17 years old, Chhitchhanut from Battambang Province has already experienced more struggle than most. Her family fell deep into debt, and constant arguments at home made it difficult for her to focus on school. “I often felt hopeless,” she recalls. “I didn’t think I could study further after high school. We had no money, and my grades were not good.”

Amid the struggles, she held onto a determination that her future could be different.

Her life began to change when she attended an information session by Passerelles Numériques Cambodia (PNC). Learning about the scholarship program opened a small window of hope. At first, she hesitated as she afraid it might be too good to be true. But when she discovered that several students from her own school had received the same scholarship and were now working in good jobs, both she and her family felt confident that PNC could offer her a brighter future. With that assurance, she applied and determined to give herself and her family a second chance.

At PNC, Chhitchhanut found herself in a completely different learning environment. She realized that her poor high school grades did not define her potential. “Here, I could start fresh,” she says. “The teachers supported me every step of the way, not just with technical lessons but with life skills and confidence-building. They taught us how to think, communicate, and prepare for the future that is not only for a job, but for life.”

Surrounded by support at PNC, she realized she was capable of much more than she had imagined.

For her family, the scholarship meant far more than education; it meant relief. Coming from a poor household where education was once seen as a financial burden, PNC’s full support eased their worries. “Now my parents no longer have to struggle to pay for my schooling or living expenses,” she says proudly. “They can focus on my younger siblings so they can continue their studies too.” Her family is deeply proud of her achievements  as she is the first in her family to pursue higher education, as all other family members had completed only up to Grade 11.

The transformation in Chhitchhanut’s life is a testament to the collaborative investment from the Skill Development Fund (SDF), PNC, and its network of dedicated supporters. Because of this collective commitment, Chhitchhanut and many students like her can focus entirely on their professional growth rather than financial hardship.

With her sights set on becoming a full-stack developer and interning at a top tech firm next year, her outlook has completely shifted. ‘This opportunity has lifted the weight off my family’s shoulders and given me a clear path forward,’ she says. ‘Now, I can see my future clearly.’

Over the past three years at PNV, Đức Quyền – an alumnus of the 2022-2025 cohort – has left his mark with passion and wholehearted dedication, from academics to extracurricular activities. To his friends, he is cheerful and kind-hearted; to juniors, he is the caring big brother; and in the eyes of teachers, he is the persistent student who never stops striving forward. For Quyền, every step along the bridge built by PNV throughout these transformative years has become a deeply cherished part of his journey.

Believing that nothing is impossible, and growing through every opportunity.

Whether facing challenges or embracing opportunities, Quyền chose to step forward without hesitation, grounded in a firm belief in his own potential. From his dedication to learning to actively engaging in a wide range of extracurricular activities at PNV, from leading as Student Association President to stepping beyond his comfort zone and moving to a new city for study and work – each experience was embraced with intention and determination, equipping him with essential skills and laying a strong foundation for his future.

Building my own bright bridges to the future.

Yet, this journey has never been an easy one. Like many other PNV students, Quyền once faced uncertainty, moments of self-doubt, and the instability that often comes with youth. But over time, that once hesitant freshman has grown stronger and more confident. Uncertainty has gradually given way to clear direction, concrete plans, and ever-expanding aspirations.

“Once I have a relatively stable job, I will continue my studies. I don’t want to stop at a college degree – I plan to pursue a university degree to gain a deeper understanding of my field. I hope I can pass on to my siblings a sense of motivation for learning and support them in going as far as they can in their education.

In the future, I will use what I’ve learned to achieve my dream: to build my own company and turn my childhood dream of becoming a startup CEO into reality.“

Today, those goals are gradually coming to life. Six months after graduation, Quyền is now working as a Software Engineer at CBTW – the very company where he once interned during his final year. No longer an intern, he now carries greater responsibilities and faces higher expectations. Yet, he has never shied away from challenges. Instead, Quyền continues to embrace each one with confidence, maintaining a strong learning mindset and proactively developing himself every day with the support of his colleagues.

With the invaluable foundation that PNV has given him, he is confident in his journey ahead – steadily moving forward and reaching for goals that once felt far beyond his grasp.

“The Diamond Bridge”

That’s how Quyền describes his 3-year journey with PNV: a bridge built from knowledge and compassion. Strong, precious, and protective, it has equipped him not only with knowledge and skills but also with invaluable life values. And this bridge is not for Quyền alone. For over 15 years, Passerelles Numériques Vietnam has empowered hundreds of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue their dreams. Each success story, each step forward taken by students, stands as the most meaningful testament to PNV’s enduring mission: transforming lives through education.

From the very first days of arriving in an unfamiliar city to pursue a completely new field of study, many PNV students began their journeys with that same courage. And Kim Thảo, an alumna of the 2017-2020 cohort at Passerelles Numériques Vietnam, was no exception.

Coming from the mountainous province of Quảng Bình (before Vietnam’s provincial merger), Thảo once held a very simple wish when she chose to join PNV: after graduation, she hoped to earn around 5 million VND a month – enough to support herself and help her family. Traveling, exploring the world, or pursuing bigger experiences were things she had never really imagined for herself back then.

Three years passed with steady effort and close support from PNV, and new doors gradually opened. Her third-year internship in Ho Chi Minh City at KMS Technology became a turning point – the first time she lived fully independently and began to see a world far broader than she had known before.

The strong foundation of knowledge, skills, and encouragement she received at PNV nurtured the confidence and resilience she needed to keep exploring new experiences, both professionally and personally.

Today, Thảo has been working for over three years at EPAM Systems, where she continues learning from experienced colleagues in an international environment, steadily developing herself while building a stable life to support her family.

At the same time, she has discovered a passion for trekking and nature exploration – something she once never believed she would have the chance to experience. As she traveled more and met people from different cultures, Thảo realized:

Of course, growth is never a smooth road. There are moments of exhaustion and self-doubt, but with persistence and determination, circumstances no longer define one’s limits. Learning each day, moving step by step, and refusing to give up – that is how Thảo began, and how she continues moving forward.

And Thảo’s story is just one of many inspiring journeys like this at PNV.

For more than 15 years, Passerelles Numériques Vietnam has supported hundreds of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in pursuing education and personal growth. Through each generation and every achievement – big or small – one truth becomes clear: when given an opportunity and the courage to keep going, students gradually outgrow their own limits, becoming more confident and ready to embrace experiences they once thought were beyond reach.

2025 has been a truly meaningful year for Passerelles Numériques Vietnam. As we marked 15 years of presence in Vietnam, this milestone was shaped by remarkable moments, collective efforts, and impactful achievements born from dedication and perseverance. Like a bridge weathered by time, the rains of challenges only made PNV more resilient, interspersed with sunny seasons of success and countless new dawns that ignited hope for hundreds of underprivileged students.

Strengthening the Bridge: Nurturing Resilience and Growth

Throughout the 2025 selection journey, from 491 applications, 49 outstanding students from 7 provinces were carefully selected for the new cohort. Representing strong diversity, 63% come from ethnic minority backgrounds and 61% are female – bringing fresh energy and resilience to the PNV family.

As the newest members of the house, PNV28 have been steadily adapting, learning with dedication, and preparing to rise in the academic year ahead.

In 2025, 4,134 teaching periods were delivered, alongside 20 skill-building workshops and 4 company visits, ensuring students were well-equipped with both technical expertise and professional readiness. These learning opportunities became steady beams of light, guiding students forward through changing skies.

Beyond academic development, personal growth and emotional well-being remained a central priority. Through 340 individual follow-up meetings for more than 125 students, PNV provided tailored guidance and close mentorship, helping students stay strong and shine brightly, even under unpredictable weather.

Through Every Season: United in Strength, Marking Our Milestones

None of this journey would have been possible without a strong and compassionate network of supporters. With the dedication of 80 committed partners and 76 devoted volunteers, they strengthened every bridge we build – ensuring that no student ever walks alone, while supporting long-term learning, engagement, and growth.

As these collective efforts matured and strengthened over time, PNV’s impact gained wider recognition. In 2025, PNV achieved 2 high-profile media features and received 2 official certificates of recognition from government-related organizations, reaffirming our credibility and trusted position in the education landscape.

The year was beautifully crowned by the celebration of PNV’s 15th Anniversary, welcoming nearly 400 guests to honor a journey shaped by perseverance, partnership, and an unwavering belief in the power of education. More than a milestone, this moment reminded us that every weathered bridge our students cross is strengthened by steady hands and hearts that walk together.

Guiding young dreams toward a brighter future has never been a journey taken alone. It is made possible thanks to the invaluable companionship of our partners, the generous commitment of our volunteers, and the unwavering dedication of the entire PNV team. Once again, we extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who has walked alongside PNV throughout this journey.

Throughout this journey, KMS has been present in every aspect of student development and growth. This enduring and holistic commitment has forged a strong bond between KMS and PNV, united by a greater mission: to open doors of opportunity, nurture people, and spread the values of sustainable education.

In 2025, KMS reaffirmed the long-term commitment to PNV with a sponsorship of USD 100,000, channeled through Sunstone Group – its authorized partner. This meaningful contribution has been fueling key initiatives, enabling students to learn, train, and thrive in the best possible environment – from academic programs and facilities to student welfare and career guidance.

Comprehensive Support Across All Dimensions

With the vision of empowering young people to grow holistically – not only excelling in technology but also becoming independent, confident, and responsible citizens – KMS has stood side by side with PNV in sustaining and enhancing the quality of training programs.

In 2025 alone, KMS’s support contributed to more than 832 lessons, equivalent to 20,800 hours of English training across three student cohorts, alongside numerous personal development and life-skills activities. These foundations are vital in preparing PNV students to step confidently into the professional workplace of the future.

Beyond academics, KMS has paid special attention to student well-being by supporting improvements in dormitory facilities, study equipment, and living conditions. These practical contributions have helped create a secure and supportive environment where students can focus on learning and personal growth.

Workshops, career-sharing sessions, and academic events co-organized with KMS have further opened valuable opportunities for students to engage with real-world business environments, gain deeper industry insights, and move closer to their dream of becoming future technology engineers.

To ensure these impacts remain sustainable, KMS has also strengthened the foundation behind the scenes – the dedicated staff who quietly stand by students every day throughout their educational journey.

A Long-Term Partnership for a More Equal and Sustainable Future in Education

Throughout this partnership, PNV and KMS have shared and resonated deeply with core values centered on people, education, and social impact.

The meaningful sponsorship in 2025 marks a special milestone, continuing a profound and enduring relationship – one built on trust, understanding, and a long-term commitment to the younger generation.

PNV extends heartfelt gratitude to KMS for the companionship with our students over the years. Thanks to this support, PNV’s mission of opening opportunities and building futures has never been a solitary journey. We firmly believe that a more equal and sustainable future in education will continue to be nurtured, as long as dedicated strategic partners like KMS remain by our side on the road ahead.

Mr. Benoit Genuini – Former President and Co-founder, now Honorary President of Passerelles Numériques Global – shared emotional reflections on the journey so far. He spoke of the “bridge of knowledge” that PNV has tirelessly built, which has grown stronger and continues to extend thanks to a devoted team and an unwavering mission: to provide educational opportunities and shape bright futures for disadvantaged youth through technology training.

Over the past 15 years, PNV has opened doors for nearly 800 students, with more than 500 graduates confidently entering the workforce and over 2,000 indirect beneficiaries. These figures speak volumes about the lasting impact and human values that PNV continues to nurture.

PNV’s achievements today are not only the result of the dedicated staff but also thanks to the support of over 150 partners and 400 volunteers. Their commitment and shared vision have empowered PNV to steadily fulfill the mission.

One of the most touching moments of the celebration was the presentation of a Certificate of Merit from the People’s Committee of Quang Ngãi Province – a recognition of PNV’s enduring contributions to helping youth rise above adversity through education and vocational training.

PNV’s impact has also been deeply felt by the academic partner, Danang College (DNC), which has worked hand-in-hand with PNV since 2017 to guide and nurture young talent. Principal Hồ Viết Hà expressed heartfelt appreciation:

“On behalf of the school’s leadership, I sincerely acknowledge and appreciate the contributions, dedication, and wholehearted efforts of all units and PNV for fulfilling their responsibilities with the highest sense of duty. I extend heartfelt thanks to PNV’s leadership, teachers, and volunteers for their guidance and support in helping our students excel in their studies.”

While awards and milestones mark progress, it is the stories of student transformation that truly define PNV’s legacy. Starting from almost nothing, with determination and resilience, students have broken through their limits to become confident and talented tech engineers. Today, 95% of PNV graduates hold stable jobs with competitive salaries, and 81% are able to support their families financially. These outcomes are powerful proof that PNV’s mission doesn’t just change individual lives – it uplifts entire households and communities.

Adding to the significance of this memorable occasion, PNV was honored to welcome alumni from 12 cohorts – familiar faces who have grown over the years – returning to celebrate this meaningful milestone with the PNV family. Their presence was a living testament to the lasting impact of PNV’s mission.

Moving Forward With Confidence