The 3rd National Higher Education and Technical Secondary Education Games Approach

Phnom Penh, 28 May 2026

Fencing is one of the 13 sports authorized by the Ministry of Education Youth and Sports for inclusion in the 3rd National University and Secondary Technical School Games 2026. This marks the second time the sport has received Ministry support, reflecting the growth and rising popularity of fencing within the Kingdom of Cambodia.

For 2026, eight higher education institutions have registered to compete:

1. Western University (Phnom Penh)

2. Western University (Kampong Cham)

3. Western University (Kandal)

4. CamEd Business School

5. National University of Management (NUM)

6. Asia Euro University

7. Institute for Banking Studies

8. University of Life

A total of 43 participants, marking a 43% increase compared to the 2nd National Games in 2024, while female participation is 21. Meanwhile, four new universities have joined the competition this year, replacing two institutions that are not participating in this edition.

According to Mr. Sok Ang, a senior official of the Fencing Federation of Cambodia, this year’s growth is attributed to two major factors:

1. Student Progression: Many fencers have recently graduated from high school and transitioned into higher education, ensuring continuity in the sport despite some older athletes graduating or exceeding the age limit.

2. Increased Promotion: There is a growing number of new students training at various universities. These institutions have actively promoted fencing, aligning with the Royal Government’s Pentagonal Strategy, which encourages "one youth to play at least one sport for life." This also reflects the Ministry of Education Youth and Sports commitment to raising competition standards to international levels.

The Federation expressed optimism regarding its outreach efforts at higher education institutions and expects participation to continue rising. Mr. Sok Ang further noted that the Federation aims to see the number of participating institutions grow and hopes to reach 200 student-athletes by the 4th edition of the games. Additionally, the Federation plans to establish an Annual National Higher Education Fencing Championship.

Be noted that the fencing competition for the 3rd National University and Secondary Technical school Games 2026 will take place from June 5th to June 8th, 2026, on the 5th Floor of The Olympia Mall.