2025 Back-to-School Forum: a must-attend event for the French-speaking community in Phnom Penh

The back-to-school event for French and French-speaking people in Phnom Penh is back for its fourth edition. On Saturday 13 September 2025, from 9am to 1pm, the Institut Français du Cambodge (IFC) will host the Back-to-School Forum, a chance to meet and exchange ideas that has become, over the years, a real anchor point for new arrivals and established families alike.

A hub for information and socialising

Designed as a springboard to facilitate integration and strengthen ties within the community, the event is an opportunity to discover the wealth of local activities in the fields of culture, sport, education, health and solidarity. Associations, clubs, institutions and businesses will present their initiatives, offering a practical and dynamic overview of life in Phnom Penh.

Activities for all ages

The programme is designed to be intergenerational and festive:

• Stands and demonstrations by various city stakeholders

• Children's area with activities throughout the day organised by the ACACIA association, including fun and creative workshops

• Activities at the IFC Media Library: tours, readings and favourite discoveries

• Musical finale by the group Phnom Penhers, followed by a convivial aperitif

A volunteer-led, unifying event

Organised by the collective Français au Cambodge – Plus Forts Ensemble, with logistical support from the Institut Français, this forum relies entirely on volunteer involvement.

‘We want to offer everyone a simple, warm and unpretentious moment,’ emphasises Florian Bohême, a member of the organising team.

How to participate?

Admission is free and open to the public. Companies, NGOs, associations and institutions wishing to have a stand or offer an activity must register before Monday 8 September 2025 (places are limited). The form is available online.

Practical information

• Date: Saturday 13 September 2025

• Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

• Location: Institut Français du Cambodge (IFC), Phnom Penh

• Admission: free, open to all

• Organised by: French community in Cambodia – Plus Forts Ensemble, in partnership with the IFC

More photos from the 2024 event here