Igniting Dreams – A Unique Experience to Raise Awareness on Khmer Children’s Education

On March 24–25, 2025, an immersive and impactful event titled “Khơi Nguồn Mer Ước” (“Igniting Dreams”) will take place at the 1st and 2nd floor lobbies of FPT University in Ho Chi Minh City. The event offers university students a rare opportunity to understand the real-life educational challenges faced by Khmer children in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region.

A Powerful Learning Experience

Khmer children in the Mekong Delta face numerous barriers on their educational journey — from language and economic difficulties to deep-seated social prejudices regarding their learning potential and future prospects. Recognizing these barriers is a critical first step toward building a more inclusive and equitable society.

To deepen participants’ empathy and awareness, Igniting Dreams has been designed as an interactive exhibition. Attendees will step into the shoes of Khmer children, navigating a series of experiential challenges that mirror the real-life struggles these young students face in their pursuit of knowledge.

Highlights of the Experience Zones

The event is divided into several creative and thought-provoking zones, each with unique activities and powerful messages:

1. Check-in Zone

Participants begin their journey by receiving a digital “passport” via a QR code. Based on the role they choose — Khmer or Cham — they will embark on different pathways, each with its own set of challenges.

2. “Mer News” – The Numbers That Speak

This area offers interactive data visualizations and games to help participants better understand the educational landscape for Khmer children. It encourages students to reflect on the importance of equal opportunities in education.

3. The Barrier Experience – Facing the Real Challenges

This is the centerpiece of the event, featuring three key educational barriers:

• Prejudice Barrier: In a powerful 8D audio experience, participants hear the negative stereotypes often directed at Khmer children. This is followed by a VR challenge aimed at breaking down these biases and encouraging open-mindedness.
• Economic Barrier: Attendees receive a random “learning kit” and are asked to complete study tasks, which vary in difficulty depending on their assigned background. Participants can use Power Cards for support from teachers, the government, or to retry the challenge.
• Language Barrier: Participants become Khmer students and must decode assignments written in the Khmer language. The level of difficulty changes depending on the type of Power Card received.

4. Check-out Zone & Souvenirs

Before leaving, participants can sign a backdrop to mark their journey and share their reflections. By submitting a short feedback form, attendees will also receive a small souvenir from the event sponsor. More importantly, each participant will be emailed a Certificate of Participation after the event — a token of their support for the cause of educational equality.

Amplifying the Message of Education for All

More than just a personal experience, Igniting Dreams is a call to action. It aims to spark a wider conversation about the importance of educational equity and encourage collective efforts to support underprivileged communities. Through every challenge, attendees are reminded of the power of empathy, understanding, and the transformative role education plays in shaping a brighter future.

Event Details:

• Register here: https://quickom.net/event/khoi-nguon-mer-uoc-2829
• Dates: March 24–25, 2025
• Venue: 1st & 2nd Floor Lobby, FPT University, Ho Chi Minh City