The Indigenous Research and Development Center (IRDC) is a specialized center established by Cambodia-Asia Polytechnic Institute (CAPI) in 2023. IRDC is dedicated to advancing inclusive, community-driven development that improves the livelihoods, rights, and long-term well-being of indigenous communities in Cambodia, with a strong focus on indigenous children and youths.

IRDC serves as a hub for research, capacity development, innovation, and partnerships, bridging indigenous knowledge with modern education, skills development, and sustainable livelihood opportunities. The Center works closely with indigenous communities, educational institutions, development partners, and policymakers to ensure that development is equitable, culturally respectful, and sustainable.

Vision

Indigenous communities, especially indigenous children and youths, live with dignity, good health, cultural pride, and sustainable prosperity.

Mission

To empower indigenous communities through research-based development, inclusive education, skills training, and advocacy, while preserving indigenous knowledge and promoting sustainable, climate-resilient livelihoods.

Goal

To contribute to the social, economic, and educational empowerment of indigenous communities by strengthening local capacity, expanding opportunities for indigenous youths, and supporting evidence-based policies and practices.

Objectives

⦁ To generate and disseminate quality research on indigenous livelihoods, education, culture, and sustainable development
⦁ To enhance access to education, vocational skills, and employment opportunities for indigenous youths, especially young women
⦁ To support sustainable and climate-smart livelihoods rooted in indigenous knowledge and local resources
⦁ To promote cultural preservation, social inclusion, and indigenous rights
⦁ To strengthen partnerships and collaboration among communities, academic institutions, government agencies, and development partners

Expected Results

⦁ Improved livelihood security and income opportunities for indigenous families and youths
⦁ Increased education attainment, employability, and leadership capacity of indigenous youths
⦁ Strengthened community resilience to climate change and economic shocks
⦁ Better integration of indigenous perspectives in research, development programs, and policy discussions
⦁ Preserved and revitalized indigenous culture, language, and traditional knowledge

Main Activities

⦁ Research and Documentation
⦁ Conduct applied research on indigenous livelihoods, education, culture, and natural resource management
⦁ Document and promote indigenous knowledge and best practices
⦁ Education and Capacity Development
⦁ Provide vocational training, life skills, and entrepreneurship programs for indigenous youths
⦁ Support scholarships, mentoring, and academic pathways through CAPI
⦁ Livelihood and Economic Development
⦁ Promote agri-enterprises, green jobs, and climate-smart agriculture
⦁ Support community-based business planning and income-generating initiatives
⦁ Community Engagement and Outreach
⦁ Facilitate community consultations, youth forums, and leadership development activities
⦁ Strengthen participation of indigenous women and youths in decision-making
⦁ Partnerships and Advocacy
⦁ Collaborate with national and international partners, universities, and development agencies
⦁ Advocate for inclusive, evidence-based policies that support indigenous development