At Korsang Thmey Primary School in Banteay Meanchey, Cambodia, the school bell rings at noon, signaling the end of classes. Students rush out, eager to ride their bicycles home. Among them is third-grader Rachna Chhay, who walks her bicycle with a flat tire to a repair shop under the scorching 39°C sun. This is her first visit since receiving the bicycle in late 2023, part of the Fisher Folks Making Circular Economy Work for the Western Tonle Sap Lake (FOSTER) project, funded by the European Union and led by Oxfam and Action Education. For Rachna, this bicycle symbolizes independence and opportunity.

“Before having a bicycle, I used to walk about an hour to and from school if my mother couldn’t take me on her motorbike. With the bicycle, I can get home in about half an hour after class,” said Rachna.

Rachna, 11, is the second of four siblings. Her brother joined monkhood to access education but left due to illness. Her eldest brother, 13, has brittle bones and wears braces to assist with walking. Her two younger sisters are in preschool and first grade. Their father, disabled by polio, supports the family by sewing fishnets and working as a barber. Their mother is a homemaker. The family was identified as a Rank 1 ID-poor household.

Rachna, 11, third grader at Korsang Thmey Primary School, Banteay Meanchey province.

Rachna, 11, third grader at Korsang Thmey Primary School, Banteay Meanchey province.

“My parents always support my study, and when they encounter financial challenges, they seek assistance of 1,500 riels ($0.35) from neighbors to fund my schooling daily,” said Rachna.

After repairing her bicycle for $0.50, Rachna returns home to find lunch ready. Her daily routine includes dishwashing, organizing pots, completing homework, and collecting recyclables to earn extra money. She can make between 1,500 riels ($0.35) and 5,000 riels ($1.25) per trip.

“My leisure after school is picking up scrap metal to earn money to buy school cakes. When I received my bicycle, I enjoyed cycling with friends and could help buy groceries locally. I could explore further and enjoy riding with my siblings,” Rachna added.

Sieb Bo, Rachna’s 36-year-old mother, lives in Kuy Meng commune, Angkor Borei district. Most residents are rice farmers who struggle to provide education for their children due to difficult living conditions.

Rachna’s mother and her brother.

Rachna’s mother and her brother.

“I am happy that my daughter was given a bicycle, allowing her to travel to school. I worry that without the scholarship, Rachna might have faced challenges attending school,” Sieb said. Sieb also worries about their housing situation, as they are currently house-sitting for an owner working in Thailand.

Sokly You grade 3 teacher at Korsang Thmey Primary School who nominated Rachna for the scholarship bicycle.

Sokly You, grade-three teacher, at Korsang Thmey Primary School who nominated Rachna for the scholarship bicycle.

Sokly You, a 34-year-old grade 3 teacher at Korsang Thmey Primary School, nominated Rachna for the scholarship bicycle. She noticed that the bicycle significantly reduced Rachna’s commute, giving her more time for studying and relaxation, and improving her safety.

“Since receiving a bicycle, Rachna’s school attendance has notably improved. Her academic record, where she achieved 5th place, showcases her excellent knowledge. The scholarship seems to be a perfect fit for her,” Sokly said.

Principal Morn Mao mentions that the school, which accommodates 175 students, often floods during the rainy season, requiring boat travel. Most students come from underprivileged backgrounds, with 80% of villagers involved in rice farming.

During the current academic year, Rachna received a bicycle, school bag, uniform, and study materials. “I trust that the consortium will support Rachna for an extended period, considering her family circumstances. Without this support, she might risk discontinuing her education,” the principal said.

“Scholarships, including bicycles, can make a big difference for Rachna’s school attendance and learning. It’s not just about reducing the physical distance; it’s about increasing accessibility to education, safety, and opportunities for a better future,” said Samphors Vorn, Country Director of Action Education Cambodia.

Rachna is committed to completing her education. “I strive to educate myself because I am hesitant to take on demanding tasks as a construction worker without the required skills,” she said. Inspired by a photo of a doctor on a notebook cover provided by Action Education, Rachna aspires to become a doctor to care for her parents when they fall ill.

Rachna’s journey exemplifies the profound impact of small acts of kindness and the support provided by the FOSTER project. Her scholarship bicycle is more than a mode of transportation; it is a vehicle of hope, propelling her toward a brighter future.