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Code Club Showcase & Coding Challenge Day: Celebrating Cambodia’s Young Innovators and The Dariu Foundation’s Growing Regional Impact

Cambodia | Digital Literacy Education | December 4, 2025

Over 150 students and teachers gathered at Cambodia’s National Technical Training Institute (NTTI) for the “Code Club Showcase & Coding Challenge Day,” demonstrating the transformative power of digital education and the remarkable potential of Cambodia’s next generation of innovators.

The Dariu Foundation proudly supported this celebration through our Digital Literacy Initiative (DLI), implemented by partner Swisscontact in collaboration with Tech for Kids Academy. His Excellency Dr Hing Sideth, Royal Government Delegate in Charge of the General Directorate of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (DGTVET), presided over the event alongside representatives from the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports.

Expanding Our Impact Across Southeast Asia

This showcase reflects The Dariu Foundation’s growing presence in Cambodia, building on our established programs in Vietnam. The two-year DLI project (2024–2025) has reached more than 4,000 students and established eight Code Clubs across Siem Reap and Battambang, demonstrating our commitment to empowering youth throughout the region. Students have transformed from passive technology consumers into active digital creators equipped to solve real-world problems.

“The Digital Literacy Initiative has played a significant role in transforming the potential of Cambodian youth into strong human capital and active contributors to society.”
— H.E. Dr. Hing Sideth, Director General of DGTVET

Innovation in Action

Building Southeast Asia’s Digital Future

At The Dariu Foundation, we believe that equipping young people with digital literacy is an essential investment in the region’s prosperity within the global digital economy. Our success in Cambodia, alongside our programs in Vietnam, demonstrates what’s possible when government, civil society, and the private sector unite behind a shared vision for youth empowerment.

SEMI-AUTOMATIC DURIAN HARVESTER

The Semi-Automatic Durian Harvesting and Transport project was developed to address safety and efficiency challenges in durian farming. In provinces such as Vinh Long, Tien Giang, and Ben Tre, durian harvesting still relies heavily on manual labour, exposing workers to safety risks from climbing tall trees and handling heavy, thorny fruits. Traditional machines are unsuitable for durians due to their unique weight, protective needs, and delicate handling requirements. The team set out to create a Bluetooth-controlled automated system that reduces physical strain, enhances worker safety, and protects fruit quality throughout the harvesting and transport process.

HOW DOES IT WORK

The system operates through a smartphone interface connected via a Bluetooth Module (BT18), with an UNO R3 microcontroller at its core processing commands and controlling DC motors through BTS7960 motor drivers across three channels:

  • Remote positioning: The operator uses a smartphone app to navigate the machine beneath durian trees, eliminating the need for climbing
  • Safe harvesting platform: Workers cut durians from a stable platform while fruits drop gently into a cushioned catchment basket, preventing damage
  • Controlled lowering: The basket descends slowly into the main container, protecting fruit quality and integrity
  • Automatic transport and unloading: Once full, the machine navigates to the collection point and tilts the basket to transfer fruits onto trucks effortlessly

The system functions seamlessly from orchard to collection point. In the field, operators position the machine under high durian trees, cut the fruit, and watch it land safely in the basket. During collection, the machine automatically moves to the pickup area and tilts to load fruits onto transport vehicles, saving time and reducing manual handling.

IMPACT

The Semi-Automatic Durian Harvesting system combines automation, IoT, and agricultural technology to create a practical solution for real-world needs. It demonstrates how students can apply coding, engineering, and problem-solving skills to address meaningful community challenges—from improving worker safety to modernising traditional farming practices in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region.

TDF Annual Tech Camp 2025: Exploring the Future with AI, Robotics, and International Partnership

In a resounding celebration of innovation and collaboration, The Dariu Foundation, in partnership with the Vĩnh Long Department of Education and Training, orchestrated the 2025 Digital Technology Festival (TDF Annual Tech Camp) on November 28th and 29th. Under the evocative theme “Exploring the Future – Innovating with AI and Robotics,” this landmark event brought together over 300 students, educators, and leaders, marking a pivotal moment in our mission to universalize digital skills for Vietnamese youth.

A Testament to International Cooperation

The festival was graced by the presence of Mr. Thomas Gass, Ambassador of Switzerland to Vietnam, whose participation underscored the robust international partnership driving digital literacy across the region. Joining him were leadership representatives from The Dariu Foundation in Switzerland, senior officials from the Departments of Education and Training of Vĩnh Long, Quảng Trị, and Đà Nẵng, as well as leaders from the Union of Friendship Organizations of Vĩnh Long and Cần Thơ, and the Department of Foreign Affairs of Quảng Trị.

This distinguished gathering illuminated the power of cross-border collaboration in shaping the technological landscape for Vietnam’s next generation. As Mrs. La Thi Thuy, Director of Vĩnh Long DOET, eloquently emphasized, technology education—particularly in AI and Robotics—serves as a crucial foundation for equipping young people to thrive in the 4.0 era.

An Ecosystem of Innovation and Discovery

The festival transformed into a vibrant nexus where knowledge, technology, and creativity converged. Students from multiple provinces immersed themselves in a rich tapestry of activities designed to challenge, inspire, and expand their technological horizons.

The Robotics Innovation Playground provided a competitive stage where young engineers demonstrated their technical prowess and creative problem-solving. Meanwhile, the AI Hackathon 2025 Finals showcased 11 outstanding projects, each addressing genuine real-world challenges through innovative AI applications—a testament to the practical, solution-oriented approach that defines our educational philosophy.

Exhibition spaces brimmed with standout projects from Dariu Tech Clubs across the region, alongside digital creative art products that blurred the lines between technology and artistic expression. Interactive Technology Experience Stations, powered by our esteemed partners including ABB Robotics, UEH University (UEH SMD/UEH Mekong), HCMC University of Technology and Education, Can Tho University, and MakersLab, offered hands-on exploration that brought abstract concepts to tangible life.

A highlight for many attendees was the Expert Talk on “The Future of Technology and Career Skills,” featuring insights from industry leaders at Google, ABB, and VinUni University. These sessions bridged the gap between classroom learning and professional reality, offering students invaluable perspectives on the evolving technological landscape and the competencies that will define tomorrow’s workforce.

Celebrating Excellence and Innovation

The festival culminated in the recognition of exceptional talent and dedication. In the AI Hackathon, Le Quy Don High School for the Gifted (Quang Tri) claimed first prize with their groundbreaking project “Echomind,” demonstrating sophisticated understanding of AI applications. The Robotics competition saw Dong Ha High School (Quang Tri) emerge victorious, their technical skill and innovative design setting a new benchmark for excellence.

Beyond individual awards, we celebrated outstanding Tech Clubs from Quang Tri, Da Nang, and Vinh Long, whose consistent dedication to technological exploration embodies the spirit of our mission.

Building Foundations for Tomorrow

As the festival drew to a close, the energy and enthusiasm radiating from participants painted a vivid picture of Vietnam’s technological future. These young innovators are not merely learning to use technology—they are discovering how to shape it, direct it, and harness it to solve the challenges facing their communities and nation.

The Dariu Foundation extends profound gratitude to all delegates, partners, and participants whose collaboration made this event possible. The presence of our academic partners—UEH University/UEH Mekong, HCMC University of Technology and Education, Can Tho University, and Van Lang University—alongside corporate leaders like ABB Vietnam, demonstrates the essential ecosystem approach required to nurture true digital competence.

As we look ahead, we remain committed to expanding the Dariu Tech Clubs model and promoting STEM/STEAM education across Vietnam. The 2025 Digital Technology Festival was not simply an event—it was a declaration of possibility, a demonstration of potential, and a stepping stone towards a future where every Vietnamese student, regardless of geography or circumstance, has the opportunity to become a digital creator, innovator, and leader.

The journey continues, and the future has never looked brighter.

AutoSense Bed – Smart Healthcare Monitoring

The AutoSense Bed project was developed with the vision of using technology to improve healthcare and caregiving. In many Vietnamese families, especially those with elderly or sick members living alone, providing constant care can be challenging. The team set out to create an automated system that monitors health conditions, reduces caregiver workload, and ensures patients receive timely attention—particularly when professional healthcare support is limited.

HOW DOES IT WORK

The AutoSense Bed integrates health monitoring, mobility assistance, and remote control into one comprehensive system. At its core, an ESP32 ESP-WROOM-32 microcontroller collects and processes health data from multiple sensors:

  • A GY-MAX30100 sensor continuously measures heart rate and blood oxygen levels
  • An arm-style blood pressure monitor records blood pressure and pulse
  • A GY-906 MLX90614 infrared temperature sensor measures body temperature without contact, ensuring patient comfort and hygiene

All readings are displayed on a local screen and transmitted via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to a mobile application, allowing caregivers to monitor the patient’s condition remotely from anywhere.

Additionally, the bed’s mechanical system—powered by a stepper motor and T20 lead screw—enables smooth lifting, lowering, and repositioning of the patient. Caregivers can adjust these settings through the mobile app, ensuring safety and convenience even when they’re not physically present.

IMPACT

The AutoSense Bed combines automation, IoT, and healthcare technology to create a practical solution for real-world needs. It demonstrates how students can apply coding, engineering, and problem-solving skills to address meaningful community challenges—from supporting elderly care to improving home healthcare systems in Vietnam.

SMART MIST HUMIDIFIER

In response to declining air quality caused by environmental pollution and climate change—particularly the dry conditions created by air conditioner use—a talented student from Long Tri A Secondary School has developed an innovative automatic mist humidifier. This groundbreaking project maintains optimal humidity levels, reduces temperature, protects health, and conserves energy while addressing the limitations of traditional humidification methods in agriculture, especially within greenhouse environments.

HOW DOES IT WORK

The automatic mist humidifier system combines advanced components to efficiently monitor and regulate environmental conditions through four key processes:

Data Collection
DHT11/DHT22 sensors continuously measure temperature and humidity, transmitting real-time data to the control unit for immediate analysis.

Signal Processing
The central control circuit (Arduino/ESP32) analyzes sensor data and compares it against pre-configured thresholds to determine necessary adjustments.

Automated Adjustment
When humidity drops below the set threshold, the system activates the ultrasonic mist humidifier to increase moisture levels. If temperature exceeds the allowed limit, the TEC-12706 Peltier cooler activates to cool the air. Once desired levels are achieved, the system automatically shuts off to conserve energy and water.

Continuous Operation
This process repeats continuously, ensuring a stable and optimal environment at all times.
The system shows excellent potential for future enhancements, including integration with mobile applications for remote monitoring and adjustment, as well as incorporating self-learning algorithms to optimize operating parameters over time.

Fabric Color Sorting System

Large-scale laundry facilities currently rely on a manual fabric color sorting process that is time-consuming and costly. This method also exposes workers to potential health hazards from contaminants on clothing. In addition, there is a need for an automated solution to help individuals with visual impairments or other disabilities quickly classify fabric colors. This project proposes and develops an automated “Fabric Color Sorting System” to address these issues by accurately identifying and separating white fabrics from colored fabrics.

HOW DOES IT WORK

The system provides precise identification and separation of white and colored fabrics. This innovative solution integrates several advanced components mounted on a lightweight aluminum frame.

  • Keyence color sensors
  • Photoelectric sensors
  • Robotic cylinders
  • Vacuum suction systems
  • Mitsubishi PLC control
  • Intuitive HMI touch interface

The system can process six samples (two white, four colored) in 55 seconds, automatically sorting them into designated bins. This automation reduces labor costs, increases operational efficiency, and improves worker safety by minimizing contact with contaminated materials. The system also creates a more inclusive environment by increasing accessibility for people with visual impairments.

This solution modernizes laundry operations and creates safer, more inclusive working environments

SMART ASSISTIVE DEVICES FOR ELDERLY CARE

Falls and navigation challenges pose significant risks for elderly and visually impaired individuals, often leading to serious injuries according to the World Health Organization. While assistive devices exist, many lack the flexibility needed for daily use.

Our “Smart Assistive Devices for Elderly Care” project addresses these challenges through two innovative devices that provide fall detection with immediate alerts and intelligent navigation support.

HOW DOES IT WORK

Wrist-Worn Navigation Aid

This device uses laser sensors to detect obstacles and alerts users with beeps when objects are too close. An advanced mode identifies obstacles in three directions (front, left, right) and provides clear voice instructions like “go straight” or “turn left” for safe navigation.

Back-Worn Fall & Health Monitor

Using accelerometer technology, this device continuously monitors body positioning and detects falls through rapid angle changes. When a fall occurs, it triggers a loud alarm and immediately sends SMS alerts to pre-registered family members. The device also monitors heart rate and displays all real-time information on an OLED screen.

Call for Proposals: Digital Education Gap Project Vietnam

The Dariu Foundation (TDF) invites qualified evaluators to submit proposals for the final evaluation of our flagship digital education project in Vietnam. This three-year initiative (2023-2025), funded by Bread for the World, aims to enhance digital literacy and bridge the digital divide among school students in underserved regions of Vietnam.

About the Evaluation:

The evaluation will assess the project’s performance using OECD/DAC criteria, focusing on relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, impact, and sustainability. The selected evaluator(s) will employ a mixed-methods approach to provide comprehensive insights into the project’s achievements and learnings.

Key Deliverables:

  • Inception Report (March 2025)
  • Preliminary Report (May 2025)
  • Draft Evaluation Report (November 2025)
  • Final Evaluation Report (December 2025)

Required Qualifications:

  • Advanced degree in education, international development, or related social sciences
  • Proven expertise in digital education and pedagogic methodologies
  • Demonstrated experience in development project evaluations
  • Strong knowledge of OECD/DAC evaluation criteria
  • Excellence in qualitative and quantitative research methods
  • Fluent in English and Vietnamese
  • Strong analytical and report-writing skills

How to Apply:

Please submit the following documents by March 20, 2025:

  1. Technical proposal with detailed methodology and work plan
  2. Financial proposal
  3. CV(s) of evaluator(s)
  4. Sample of relevant evaluation reports

Submit your application to:

Mrs. Lan Anh – Project Manager
Email: prt.ho03@dariu.vn

Selection will be based on relevant experience, methodology quality, and proposed budget. For detailed information, please download the complete Terms of Reference
bit.ly/TDF25_ToR_DLI.

Join us in assessing this important initiative to bridge the digital divide in education!

MULTI-FUNCTIONAL RESCUE ROBOT

In disaster-prone Vietnam, where natural calamities like heavy rains, flash floods, and landslides cause devastating loss of life and property, a team of innovative students has developed a Multi-Functional Rescue Robot. This state-of-the-art solution aims to revolutionize search and rescue operations by improving efficiency, reducing response time, and minimizing risks to rescue personnel in hazardous environments1.

The Rescue Robot is equipped with advanced technologies to perform critical search and rescue functions in challenging conditions. It operates remotely, allowing rescue teams to gather real-time information and respond effectively while maintaining a safe distance.

HOW DOES IT WORK

Key Features and Functions:

Navigation & Detection

  • Omnidirectional wheel system for smooth navigation in complex terrain
  • Infrared sensors and head tracking camera for victim detection in low visibility conditions
  • Robotic arm for clearing debris, delivering supplies, or retrieving small objects

Intelligent Communication & Control

  • Two-way audio and video communication system
  • Remote control using Arduino Mega 2560 microcontroller
  • Environmental sensors for monitoring temperature, gas levels, and structural stability

Durability and Adaptability

  • All-terrain capability for operation in extreme environments
  • Weather-resistant design to withstand harsh conditions

This innovative project demonstrates the potential of technology to enhance disaster response and save lives in challenging situations

RICE GUARDIAN

Inspired by their family’s struggle with low rice seed germination, a group of students in Hau Giang Province developed the Rice Guardian to address the dual challenges of manual handling and increasing saltwater intrusion in rice cultivation. This innovative IoT device is designed to monitor and automate critical stages of rice cultivation, ensuring optimal growth and maximizing yield.

HOW DOES IT WORK

The Rice Guardian utilizes advanced sensors and IoT technology to create an optimal environment for rice cultivation:Key Components:

  1. Hardware
    • Wemos EsP8266 D1 mini board
    • Industrial nutrient concentration sensor
    • Industrial pH sensor
    • DS18B20 temperature sensor
    • SHT30 humidity and temperature sensor
    • Salinity sensor
    • Solar energy panel and battery

Main Functions:

  1. Perfect Seed Soaking
    • DS18B20 sensors track water temperature for optimal seed soaking
    • SHT30 sensors monitor temperature and humidity
    • Automated misting system maintains ideal germination conditions
  2. Nutrient-Rich Soil Management
    • Industrial-grade sensors monitor NPK, pH, and TDS levels
    • Provides real-time insights for targeted fertilization
  3. Salinity Defense
    • Instant alerts for salinity intrusion
    • Automatic activation of pumps or salt barriers to protect crops

The Rice Guardian represents a significant advancement in precision agriculture for rice cultivation. By combining automation, real-time monitoring, and environmental control, it offers a powerful tool for farmers to improve rice production efficiency and combat environmental challenges such as saltwater intrusion.

Contact Switzerland

Manuela Nieth
manuela@dariu.org

Contact Vietnam

Nguyen Van Hanh
hanh@dariu.vn


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