Royal University of Agriculture

International Scientific Conference

The 17^th International Conference on Environmental and Rural Development (17^th ICERD)
At the Royal University of Agriculture,
Phnom Penh, Cambodia 26-29 March, 2026

Conference Introduction

Rural communities play an important role in global ecosystems. They are the source of food, the stewards of natural landscapes, and the keepers of cultural traditions passed down through generations. However, in today’s rapidly changing world, these communities face growing challenges—from climate change and limited access to education and healthcare–to economic inequality and the need for sustainable livelihoods.

The 17^th International Conference on Environmental and Rural Development (ICERD) embraces this reality and looks forward to hope and purpose. Under the theme “Transforming Rural Communities Through Solution-Driven Science and Digitalization for Livelihood Security,” the conference focuses on how innovation and collaboration can bring meaningful change to rural areas.

This year’s theme highlights the importance of applying science and technology not just for advancement but also for solving real problems in ways that are practical, inclusive, and sustainable. It recognizes that digital tools, when made accessible, can empower rural people with better access to information, markets, education, and services. More importantly, it emphasizes that science must be rooted in the everyday realities of rural life, address local needs, and be driven by community voice.

The 17^th ICERD brought together a diverse group of researchers, students, policymakers, and community leaders from around the world to share ideas, experiences, and success results. It offers a platform to learn from one another and co-create solutions that truly work in a real context.

Through this conference, we reaffirm our shared commitment to building a future in which rural communities are not left behind but are instead leaders in resilience, innovation, and sustainability.

http://rua.edu.kh/assets/images/ckeditor/files/1/FLYER_IJERD_17.26.pdf

Organized by

17^th ICERD Organizing Committee.

Co-organized by

International Society of Environmental and Rural Development (ISERD),
Royal University of Agriculture (RUA) and
Institute of Environmental Rehabilitation and Conservation (ERECON)

Scholarship

Students who are looking for a scholarship, RUA provides a number of sources of scholarships.

Contact Info

Royal University of Agriculture, Sangkat/Khan Dangkor, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Tel: (855) 11 967 877 / 16 578 012

Email: info@rua.edu.kh

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