The Mondulkiri Water Utility in Cambodia is actively working to increase female representation within its workforce, a move supported by the World Bank-financed Water Supply and Sanitation Improvement Project. This initiative aims to enhance access to piped water and sanitation services while improving the performance of service providers.
Sim Sokhea, a production staff member at Mondulkiri Water Utility, shares her journey from joining as an ordinary staff member to being promoted to a technical position after completing on-the-job training. She initially doubted her ability to perform what she considered "a man's job" but now finds satisfaction in her role. "I would like to send a message to women that when our utility needs technical staff, please apply and dare to try," she encourages.
The project has seen Mondulkiri Water Utility's female staff ratio rise from 12% in 2019 to 32% in 2024. Director General So Sovannarith emphasizes the company's policy of prioritizing women during recruitment: “If the scores between a man and a woman are similar, the management gives priority to the woman.”
Currently, six women hold various positions at Mondulkiri Water Utility, including deputy director and technical roles. Deputy Director General Sou Sreyna highlights challenges such as societal prejudices that still deter some women from pursuing technical jobs. “There is a social, family factor here,” Sreyna explains.
Looking ahead, Mondulkiri Water plans further recruitment of women into its business department while ensuring support for their needs. "This includes creating dedicated spaces for breastfeeding and childcare," states Sovannarith.