Chegn Chhegnly

Date of birth: August 1, 1990
University: University of Management and Economics, Battambang
Major: Agriculture & Rural Development

In Her Own Words

My name is Chegn Chhegnly and I was born 01 August, 1990 in Sorya village, Koub commune, Ochrov district, Banteay Meanchey province. I have 2 sisters and 3 brothers. My father Neoun Chegn died when I was young and my mother Chea Sarim is a farmer.

Due to the difficulty of my family, my friend told me about the GATE scholarship provided to poor girls in 2010. When I heard this news, I decided to apply and submited an application form with my friend. A month later, I was informed by the GATE staff that I was selected to be a scholarship recipient. And because of this scholarship I was able to continue my studies and I graduated from Koub high school in 2012.

Nowadays, I am a year one student in University of Management and Economics (UME), majoring in agriculture and development. I only got a 50% tuition scholarship and I have to pay 200USD more every year. The only reason I was able to afford this is because my mother borrowed the money from a middle man in order to pay the rest of my university fee and buy study materials. My mom was working hard in the fields to earn some extra money and pay back the debt, but day to day the loan rate increases which makes it difficult for her to pay it back. In all, my family was in debt around 5,000USD. And until now, my mom could not afford to pay back any of this loan and it was greatly affecting my ability to study and concentrate.

Luckily, I was informed that LO will still support me in university. It was a big help for my entire life; my mom can earn more and pay debt back step-by-step without worrying about my study expenses.  The scholarship support covers my study materials, housing, food, rice, English and computer courses, and monthly stipend. I would like to say thanks you to the donors and GATE staff for all your support and I wish you health and success in your work.

I hope that LO will still support my food, accommodation  bicycle, and study materials until I graduate from university.