July 28, 2016
Helmets for Families, a program supported by Manulife Cambodia, engaged hundreds of students and families during both school and community events affiliated with the Sothearos Primary School in Phnom Penh. The events aimed to educate attendees on the mandatory helmet law that went into effect in Cambodia in January 2016. During the extracurricular activities at the school, about 200 children participated in activities such as quizzes and drawing contests. At the community events, Student Council Volunteers, who were selected and trained by AIP Foundation, distributed road safety education materials.
Cambodia annually loses an estimated 2% of its GDP due to road crashes. From 2011-2013, only about 6% of motorcycle passengers and 64% of drivers wore helmets. Helmets for Families raises awareness of and educates communities on the importance of practicing safe road behaviors.