The Kingdom of Cambodia is a country in Southeast Asia. Cambodia borders Thailand on its west, Laos to its northeast and Vietnam to its east. Phnom Penh is the kingdom’s capital and largest city. There are an estimated 14 million Cambodians or ‘Khmers’ as they are usually identified. Most Cambodians are Buddhists, however there are some Muslim communities and a few Christians. Cambodia is a hot and humid country, with temperatures as high as 40C/104F! The currency is Khmer Riel, with a stable exchange rate of about 4000 Riels to 1 USD. It is common to see people using US Dollars in the markets in addition to Riels.
For the next two years (2010-2012) I will be living in Battambang, the country’s second largest city. I have joined the team of Handicap International, a development organization that works to enable disabled people and the most vulnerable members of society to regain their dignity and a place in their communities. I will be working with teachers to help children with disabilities to be included in education. Inclusive Education is an approach which looks at how we design our schools, activities towards the individual needs of all students.
