Research Reports  

After Adoption: Use, Skill and Rules for Generative AI in Cambodian Higher Education


Published: 27-Oct-2026
Keyword: Generative AI, Cambodian higher education, AI literacy, academic integrity, digital equity
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Abstract/Summary

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is now widely used in Cambodian higher education, but evidence on how it is used, how well students and lecturers are equipped to use it, and what rules apply remains limited. This report addresses these questions using matched online surveys conducted by the Cambodia Development Resource Institute in September and October 2026. The analysis covers 1,510 students and 285 lecturers from more than 20 institutions, together with evidence from a stakeholder validation workshop. AI use was near-universal among respondents, although frequency varied by location, device, prompt language and access to paid plans. Students and lecturers rated their skills as moderate, while students showed gaps in understanding data privacy and confidence in judging accuracy. The two groups agreed on low-stakes uses but differed on AI use in assessed work. Formal institutional policies were uncommon, and applicable rules were often unclear. Demand for practical training was high, while cost and weak Khmer-language performance remained major barriers. The non-random, self-reported sample does not provide national estimates. The findings support clear course-level rules, privacy and accuracy education, mobile- and Khmer-accessible support, fairer access to tools, and lecturer-led capacity building.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64202/rr.202610




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