There is a deeply personal reason behind Cambodian schoolgirl Vin Malika’s desire to work in the medical field. The 15-year-old says, “When I was young, I became seriously ill, and thanks to the hospital care, I was able to live a healthy life. That inspired me to give back by helping others.”

Malika wants to become a healthcare project manager or a hospital administrator, playing a behind-the-scenes role in improving healthcare. She is also interested in becoming a translator so she can communicate with people from different countries and cultures.

Malika is a Grade 9 student at Xavier Jesuit School (XJS), founded in 2015 in Sisophon, in north-west Cambodia, one of the least developed regions in the country.

Becoming a role model

When she started at the school in 2017, Malika was shy and quiet. But she has grown into a confident student leader through her involvement in the Xavier Student Council.

Malika gradually developed the confidence to speak in public and later served as a master of ceremonies at school events.

“The school has helped me believe in myself and prepare for my future,” she says. “My parents are very proud of how much I have grown, especially because I can now communicate confidently in English.”

Her dedication, leadership and personal growth earned her the opportunity to participate in an educational study tour to South Korea in October 2026.

Building opportunities

“The school’s support program has given us a quality education. I have seen many graduates continue their studies at universities and build successful careers. Some have even studied in Hungary and Indonesia. Seeing their achievements motivates me to work hard toward my own dreams.

“Our school is also recognised for its positive learning environment and strong values.

“Without schools like Xavier Jesuit School, few children from disadvantaged families would have opportunities to learn and develop. I know that the money donated by benefactors comes from their own hard work and sacrifice, yet they generously choose to support our school. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all our donors. I will continue to study hard, become a responsible person, and contribute to society.

“Your support does not only help our school. It gives Cambodian children like me the opportunity to build a brighter future.”

“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all our donors. I will continue to study hard and contribute to society.”

Malika

About XJS

At the beginning of the 2025–26 school year, 899 students were enrolled at Xavier Jesuit School. By June 2026, 882 students, including 468 girls and 414 boys, remained in school, representing a strong retention rate of 98 percent.

This progress has been made possible with the support of generous donors, who help Xavier Jesuit School provide quality education and additional learning support for students in one of Cambodia’s most disadvantaged regions.

Through Jesuit Mission, students in Grades 7 to 12 who may otherwise be unable to continue their education can receive full scholarships covering living costs, school fees and learning materials. The scholarship program aims to support 80 students, including 50 girls and 30 boys.

Fr Indon Oh SJ, Director of Xavier Jesuit School, speaks of his “deep sense of gratitude” for Jesuit Mission supporters: “Thanks to your generosity, the school we established in one of the most disadvantaged regions of Cambodia has grown into a thriving school, and our students are growing and developing well.”

Find out more about the school