EuroCham: Interview with Mr. CHHEAV Narath

Last week, EuroCham Cambodia had an interview with Mr. CHHEAV Narath, Chairman of EuroCham's Human Resources Committee and Managing Director of ING Law Office and CoGen HR, Management Academy, and Consulting Group, after the results of the Cambodia Skills Gab Assessment 2024, to discuss the findings and implications for the Cambodian workforce.

Mr. Narath emphasised the value of focused training initiatives in closing the skills gap in Cambodia. Training programmes can be crucial in producing a more skilled workforce and resolving issues in the recruiting industry by concentrating on particular skill shortages, putting action plans into place, and encouraging continual progress. Check out the interview below. 

1. EuroCham: Were you surprised by anything you saw in the EuroCham Skills Gap Assessment 2024?

Mr. CHHEAV Narath: There were some aspects of the EuroCham Skills Gap Assessment 2024 that I found interesting: 

• The emphasis on soft skills: The EuroCham Skills Gap Assessment 2024 highlighted two key findings: the importance of often-underestimated soft skills like leadership, quality control, and project management across industries.

• Sector-specific needs: The focus on the unique skills gaps within different sectors like construction, tourism and manufacturing was insightful. It emphasises the need for targeted training programs that cater to specific industries.

• Discrepancy between qualifications and job requirements: The report identified a potential mismatch between academic qualifications and actual job needs, which wasn't entirely surprising. However, the extent of this mismatch is particularly interesting to see.

Overall, the report likely confirms existing knowledge about Cambodia's skills gap.

2. EuroCham: How effective do you think training programmes can be in solving this skills gap?

Mr. CHHEAV Narath: Training programs can be a powerful tool in tackling Cambodia's skills gap, but their effectiveness hinges on a few key factors:

• Tailored Training: Generic programs may not be enough. The most effective training should be designed and offered in close collaboration with each company or organisation. This ensures the program directly addresses the specific skills needed for their current job market needs. Imagine a tourism company needing training in digital marketing for attracting foreign visitors, versus a garment factory requiring specialized sewing machine operation skills. A one-size-fits-all approach wouldn't benefit either.

• Action and Follow-up: Training isn't a one-time fix. To be truly effective, companies and organizations need to develop clear action plans based on the training content. This plan should outline how the newly acquired skills will be implemented in the workplace. Following up on this plan is crucial. Monitoring progress, identifying areas for improvement, and offering additional support ensures the training translates into real-world ability.

• Continuous Improvement: The skills gap is dynamic, so training programs need to be as well. Companies and organizations should regularly assess the effectiveness of their training programs and adapt them based on industry changes, feedback from employees, and the evolving needs of the job market.

By focusing on tailored training, implementing action plans, and fostering continuous improvement, training programs can become a significant force in closing Cambodia's skills gap.

3. EuroCham: Do the findings correlate to what you experience in the recruiting sector?

Mr. CHHEAV Narath: The findings on the skills gap in Cambodia absolutely correlate with what I experience in the recruiting sector. Here's how:

• High Demand for Specific Skills: We often see a mismatch between the skills employers require and the skills readily available in the applicant pool. Companies are increasingly seeking candidates with specialised technical skills, industry knowledge, and soft skills like communication and problem-solving.

• Difficulty Filling Positions: Filling positions that require these specific skills can be a challenge. Many qualified candidates haven't had the opportunity to develop them through relevant training programs.

• Benefits of Effective Training: When companies invest in training programs tailored to their needs, we see a positive impact. Employees can gain the necessary skills to become competitive candidates, and companies can fill open positions more efficiently.

Overall, the skills gap identified in the findings presents a real obstacle in the recruiting sector. However, effective training programs offer a promising solution for both employers and employees.

Source: EuroCham Cambodia