Remuneration Policy
Too low salaries are one of the most urgent issues to solve in Cambodia. Many people survive on an income that is far below what is needed to support their families. Factory workers in the garment sector earn below 200 USD/month, teachers usually around 230 USD/month, in the hospitality business in and around Siem Reap salaries start at 100 USD/month .. all for full-time occupation (48 hours/week).
Rent, transport, food, medical care, personal care, clothing… Some reputed organizations calculated that a minimum salary for a single-person household should be at least 300,- USD.
Let’s make a simulation :
- Room rent : 50,- USD/month
- Meals (a very basic meal, water to drink, 3 times/day, 1,5 USD per meal : 135,- USD/monthFor many people, it already stops here, not enough salary to pay even this!
- An extra drink a day : 15,- USD/month
- Gasoline for the motorbike to go to work : 10,- USD/month
- Credit for the phone : 5,- USD/month
- Laundry : 3,- USD/month
- Personal Care (soap, toothpaste, haircut…) : 5,- USD/monthWe’re over 220 USD/month now! Hard to find people earning more than that!
- Electricity for light and fan (no aircon of course) : 15,- USD/month
- Some new clothes (t-shirt, underwear, shoes…) : 5,- USD/month (that’s if you’re ok with the cheapest options or second-hand stuff).
- Flat tire on the motorbike, oil change…
- Downpayment for the motorbike
- Downpayment for the phone
- Tuition fees if you want to attend some extra training
- Hope they don’t need a doctor, dentist nor medication
- …
Everyone will agree that this simulation is far from complete, look at your own shopping cart or compare your monthly spendings!
We think that organizations (public sector, businesses, NGOs…) paying too low salaries to their employees are a part of one of the biggest problems in Cambodia, rather than contributors to a solution to it.
At The Teacher Development Support Organisation we have, as the law doesn’t impose it, set our own standard for a minimum wage. This is based on proposals set forward by unions and human rights organizations.
We work with a minimum salary of 450,- USD for a full-time equivalent, pro-rata for part-timers.
No-one in our organizations has a salary below this threshold!
Given that this is a minimum, salaries can be higher, depending on education, experience, performance, and market conditions.
We do not reveal the detail of the salaries of individual employees, this in respect to their privacy.
Alcohol and Drugs
At TDSO, we hold our employees’ safety, well-being, and effectiveness in the highest regard. We are committed to fostering a secure, healthy, and productive workplace for all, and we recognize the profound impact that alcohol and drug misuse can have, leading to short-term and long-term impairments. As an organization dedicated to securing a brighter future for
Cambodian children, we are resolute in setting a positive example for them to follow.
General Policy
1. Zero-Tolerance: TDSO maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards using illicit drugs and alcohol on our premises. This policy applies at all times while on our campus.
2. Prohibited During Work: The consumption of drugs or alcohol while performing TDSO duties is strictly forbidden. Any policy violation will result in disciplinary action, including possible dismissal.
3. Legal Compliance It is the personal responsibility of each employee to adhere to all relevant laws and regulations, particularly those about driving under the influence. Engaging in illegal activities, such as driving under the influence, is strictly prohibited and may result in legal
consequences.
Responsible Alcohol Consumption Guidelines
1. Permissible Alcohol: TDSO acknowledges the importance of creating a relaxed and enjoyable work environment for our staff. As such, we permit our employees to enjoy moderate alcoholic beverages such as beer or wine on specific occasions or during designated events.
2. Responsibility: It is of utmost importance that all staff members consume alcohol responsibly and in moderation. If a staff member exceeds the limit of two cans of beer, they must strictly refrain from driving. Instead, they should utilize ride-sharing services such as PASS APP or other alternatives to ensure their safe return home.