Economics
Learn why Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in the world. Understand issues
of land ownership, corruption and its impact on families. Visit a garment factory
and see the living conditions of the workers there. Interview textile factory workers
and learn about the challenges of their lives. Visit local markets and privately owned
stores. Interview women who are small business owners. Be challenged throughout the
country as you observe and experience people who survive daily having very little
and yet, show resilience.
Education
Visit public schools and church-funded child sponsorship programs like the Free Methodist
House of Love, Joy and Peace. Visit a university student dormitory/hostel. Interview
school teachers, principals and university students. Visit universities and high schools
and interact with students, administration, and professors. Understand ways to be
part of the solution.
Family
Observe a traditional Buddhist wedding. Visit the Happy Tree AIDS Children’s Orphanage,
play with the children and better understand the dynamics of AIDS in Cambodia. Interview
family members who lost loved ones during the Khmer Rouge era. Dialogue with university
students about attitudes toward family and marriage. Learn to cook Cambodian cuisine!
Interview first-generation Christians who have been denied by their families. See
the floating villages on the lakes and rivers and understand how some of the landless
people live in Cambodia. Meet with International Justice Mission and aftercare ministries
for rescued children to better understand human trafficking.
Government
Interview current or former government officials about their views on foreign policies
and issues of corruption, as well as the development of the judiciary system and the
rule of law. Discuss the role Buddhism plays in government and politics. Visit the
Royal Palace. Interview university students about their thoughts toward the government
and its policies, both international and domestic. In Siem Riep visit the ancient
temples and monuments from the historic and powerful Khmer Kingdom which ruled all
of Southeast Asia many years ago.
Religion
Visit Angkor Wat and Ta Prahm, two of the most ancient temple complexes in the world.
Observe Cambodians worshiping at the Buddhist temple and discuss the beliefs held
by the monks or nuns there. Enjoy visits with Buddhists and discuss their faith and
lives. Observe a Buddhist funeral. Understand how historic Hindu and Buddhist beliefs
impact life in Cambodia today. Worship in local Free Methodist churches and establish
friendships with young adults there. Visit Tahas Bible Training Center, an interdenominational
school equipping pastors and lay leaders in Cambodia.
