On March 29th, 2025, the Italian Business Chamber Cambodia (ItaCham) with the lead of its Vice Chairman, Dr. Riccardo Corrado, hosted the “Study in Italy – Cambodia Edition” at the prestigious Shangri-La Phnom Penh. This exclusive event illuminated the myriad opportunities awaiting Cambodian students in Italy, emphasizing the nation’s esteemed universities, rich cultural heritage, affordable living, and vibrant lifestyle.
Italy stands as a beacon for higher education, boasting institutions renowned for academic excellence and innovation. With 58 UNESCO World Heritage sites, students are immersed in an environment where history and modernity converge seamlessly. Beyond the beauty of art and architecture, Italy offers a cost-effective living standard, ensuring students can experience its cuisine, fashion, and culture, technology, without financial strain. Moreover, Italy’s commitment to safety and its welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal destination for international scholars.
A focal point of the session was the exploration of scholarship opportunities. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) offers grants to foreign students, providing financial assistance for tuition and living expenses. Similarly, the Diritto allo Studio Universitario (DSU) scholarship ensures eligible students receive comprehensive support, including free accommodation, meals, and monetary aid, facilitating a conducive learning environment.
Navigating the application process was demystified during the event. Dr. Riccardo detailed essential steps such as the legalization of academic credentials, obtaining the Declaration of Value, accurate translations, and securing the appropriate visa. This guidance aimed to streamline the journey for Cambodian students aspiring to study in Italy.
Adding depth to the discourse, two distinguished Cambodian alumni shared their experiences: Ranon Phal, and Marady Ing. Ranon, an artist and a graduate of the Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera in Milan—a venerable institution established in 1776 known for fostering artistic talent—reflected on the transformative impact of studying in a city celebrated for its art and design. Marady, who pursued International Relations at the University of Bologna, Europe’s oldest university founded in 1088, recounted how the institution’s rich academic tradition and diverse student body broadened their global perspective. Both speakers emphasized the adaptability, personal growth, and enriching experiences that characterized their time in Italy.
The event concluded on a celebratory note with a lucky draw, where attendees received delightful prizes, including authentic Italian coffee (Barbera) from Gourmet Beverage Solutions, mocktail vouchers from Bellini Bistro Italiano, stylish bags from Soundskool Cambodia, and exclusive coupons from Smateria. These tokens symbolized the fusion of Italian and Cambodian cultures, underscoring the event’s theme of educational and cultural connectivity between the two nations.
Through initiatives like the “Study in Italy – Cambodia Edition,” ItaCham continues to bridge Italy and Cambodia, fostering educational collaborations that pave the way for a brighter, globally connected future. A final thank you to UNI ITALIA for supporting and endorsing the event.
About the event:
- Organized by: ItaCham – Italian Business Chamber Cambodia, and Dr. Riccardo Corrado
- Endorsed by: Uni-Italia Vietnam
- Venue Sponsor: Shangri-La Phnom Penh
- Sponsors: Riccardo Corrado | Soundskool Music Cambodia | Bellini Bistro Italiano | GBS
- Media Partner: iDEN Agency
- Supporter: Italian Cambodian Arts
