Jockey Club programme brings computational thinking to Cambodian schools

A computational thinking programme initiated and funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust has reached a significant new milestone with its adoption and adaptation in Cambodian primary schools. Since its launch in Hong Kong in 2016, CoolThink@JC has led the advancement of innovation and technology education, equipping local students with essential problem-solving and creative skills for the digital age.

In Hong Kong, the programme’s impact has been deep and wide-ranging. In 2023, the Education Bureau adopted and adapted its learning materials for curriculum modules on innovation and technology education. Today, more than 100,000 upper primary students across all publicly funded primary schools have benefited from CoolThink@JC, gaining foundational computational thinking skills. The programme has also received international recognition, including in the QS Reimagine Education Awards, while its teaching resources have been shared globally and adopted by schools in the Chinese Mainland.

Building on this strong foundation, CoolThink@JC is now being extended to Cambodia. Following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS) last year, an official launch ceremony for the programme was held in Phnom Penh on 6 June. CoolThink@JC’s curricular materials will be introduced in 100 Cambodian public schools between 2025 and 2028, benefiting around 30,000 students and 500 teachers.

This collaboration is motivated by a shared commitment to promoting equitable access to high-quality education as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to strengthen international trade, connectivity and economic growth. The partnership has also established a foundation for cross-border educational initiatives, including collaborative research and student exchange programmes, which can inspire impactful learning for students across Asia. It is expected to enhance teaching practices and create more inclusive and impactful learning environments across the region.

The Jockey Club’s support for CoolThink@JC, like all its charity and community donations, is made possible by its unique integrated business model through which racing and responsible sports wagering generate substantial tax contributions, charity support and employment opportunities for Hong Kong.