While the immediate employment outcomes for Sala Baï graduates are well documented, with 97% finding jobs within three months of graduation, less was known about the program’s longer-term impact. To address this, Rapid Universal conducted a study assessing the outcomes for graduates who completed their training more than five years ago. The study interviewed 205 alumni living in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Sihanoukville, and used a Livelihood Outcome Index (LOI) to provide a holistic measure of their economic, professional, and social outcomes.
The evaluation shows that Sala Baï’s training program has had a profoundly positive impact on graduates and their families across multiple dimensions.
Key Findings:
- Employment: 97% of alumni are currently employed, compared with 20% before training.
- Income: Graduates earn an average of USD 950 per month*, including benefits, with nearly all in semi-skilled or higher-level positions.
- Family Impact: 78% support their families financially, whether living independently or with parents.
- Gender Gaps: Female graduates earn 22% less than male counterparts, a gap that rises to 30% in hospitality roles. This gap emerges in management positions, as no significant difference was observed for their first job after training.
- Livelihood Outcomes: Overall LOI score of 79/100, reflecting improved employment, income, savings, assets, skills, and household well-being.
Recommendations:
- Strengthen alumni engagement and encourage voluntary contributions and mentoring.
- Expand training in English, financial literacy, management, and business skills.
- Increase access to overseas internships for professional growth.
- Maintain and evaluate gender equality training as a core part of the curriculum.
- Promote sector-wide gender equity through advocacy with hospitality partners.
These findings confirm that Sala Baï does more than help graduates enter the workforce, it creates lasting benefits for alumni and their families.
Read the full study summary here: APLC_Impact_Evaluation_Report_Summary
*Benefits include accommodation, service charges, food, and other bonuses.