The Third International Conference on Science and Mathematics Education
in Developing Countries
The 5th Anniversary of Cambodian Mathematical Society


March 3-5, 2010, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

General Information
I. Background
Science and mathematics play vital roles in developing the economy, interacting with the environment wisely and providing for public health and services. These subjects are also essential to making informed personal, social and political decisions. When taken together science and mathematics can be used ethically to improve the human condition in a sustainable manner.
Science and mathematics need to be considered simultaneously. While science provides descriptions, explanations and predictions about the natural world, mathematics provides the language of the most sophisticated and powerful uses of science. The history and current use of the two subjects interact strongly to provide humans incredible intellectual tools of great practical value. Our agriculture, transportation, communications architecture, tools for obtaining natural resources and manufacturing, and even our leisure depend upon the applications of science and mathematics. In order for Cambodia to become a modern country the general population, specialists in many fields and politicians need sustained and sustainable access to scientific and mathematical knowledge and their uses.

Wanting to show the necessity of science and mathematics education in a developing country, share common experiences, obtain recommendations from the public and experts regarding the development of a sustainable science and mathematics education system for all the youth of Cambodia, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport and Cambodian Mathematical Society will hold a three day National Conference on “Mathematics and Mathematical Education in Cambodia” and joint the 5th Anniversary of Cambodian Mathematical Society. The conference will be scheduled at the Phnom Penh on March 3-5, 2010.

The conference will also receive feedback and recommendations from participants in order to propose to the relevant institutions to tackle this instant issue and seek other partners that provide service of science for working in conjunction to further advance the education of Mathematics and Sciences in Cambodia at high level up to regional standards.


II. Objective
In to reach the goal, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport and Cambodian Mathematical Society has set up the following specific objectives for the conference:
- To show the applications of science and mathematics in developing the economy, infrastructure and environment protections of Cambodia.
- To show the applications of science and mathematics in social and political lives of Cambodia citizens.
- To show the applications of science and mathematics in everyday personal and work lives of Cambodian citizens.
- To prepare national policy on mathematics and science education in Cambodia;
- To prepare plans for a comprehensive systems of science and mathematics education for all of Cambodia
- To set up concrete program international cooperation to develop mathematics and science education in Cambodia.

III. Expected Result
Through the activities arranged in the conference, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport and Cambodian Mathematical Society expects that this forum will encourage Cambodian students, teachers, and researchers, especially the public’s spirits to actively contribute to enhance the study of mathematics and science. This is an urgent need for the Kingdom of Cambodia in pushing its development to levels like those of other countries in the region as well as in the world. This conference also will gather the good ideas, feedback, and other recommendations from participants for invoking public support and help in promoting the knowledge and applications of mathematics and science in real world today.

IV. Date and Place
- Date : March 3-5, 2010
- Place: Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

V. Participants:
80 participants from the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, International Organization in Cambodia and Expertise from abroad will be expected in the conference including:
a) Foreigner Specialist from abroad: 15 persons.
b) International Organization in Cambodia 10 persons, and
c) Cambodian participant 55 persons(difference field: mathematics, physics, biology, chimistry,...) List participants include.

VI. Organizers and Supported by:
- Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport
- UNESCO in Cambodia
- Cambodian Mathematical Society

VII. Tentative Programme (please see programme)
The first day will provide an overview of the situation by reflecting on numerous country experiences and the role of the International Organization in supporting inclusive approaches. The second day will narrow in on teacher education on mathematics and science and focus on identifying barriers and making recommendations through group work. The third day will continuous the same process and Wrap up Session. The fourth day will visit high school and university in Siem Reap province and discussion with teacher, lecturer and students.
Modalities:
- Presentation
- Plenary discussions
- Group work