UNICEF and HISP UiO Launch Partnership to Modernize Cambodia’s Health Data Systems
A three-year collaboration between UNICEF and the HISP Centre at the University of Oslo with implementation partner HISP Vietnam aims to transition national HMIS to DHIS2, strengthen data use, and build sustainable capacity in the country.
UNICEF Cambodia and the HISP Centre at the University of Oslo (HISP UiO) have signed a new agreement to support the Ministry of Health (MoH) in modernizing the country’s health systems by transitioning both its health management information system (HMIS) to DHIS2. The current HMIS supports basic statistical reporting but operates in parallel with other health information platforms that often duplicate data and lack interoperability—challenges that DHIS2 will address through its integrated approach. HISP UiO and regional implementation partner HISP Vietnam will work together on a phased initiative to ensure a smooth transition to DHIS2 while minimizing disruption to existing systems.
HISP Vietnam will work closely with MoH Cambodia on day-to-day coordination and implementation, and HISP UiO will contribute to system design, needs and maturity assessments, and provide overarching technical guidance. Together, the partners will strengthen Cambodia’s capacity to manage and use health data for decision-making, improve supply chain visibility, and enhance interoperability with other health information systems.
Key Areas of Collaboration
- System assessment and design: Conducting a comprehensive review of Cambodia’s HMIS to identify gaps, align with health program needs, and inform the design of a DHIS2-based platform customized in both English and Khmer.
- DHIS2 configuration: Setting up metadata, custom apps, dashboards, validation rules, and GIS mapping to support accurate and timely data collection across programs such as maternal and child health, immunization, and disease surveillance.
- Data migration: Transferring legacy data into DHIS2 to preserve historical health records, support analysis, and train users with real datasets.
- System interoperability: Integrating DHIS2 with identified national health systems through APIs and middleware solutions, and developing standard processes for sustainable data exchange.
- Capacity building: Establishing a national DHIS2 core team, delivering ongoing training for technical staff and program managers, and creating end-user manuals and guides to ensure long-term system sustainability.
- Ongoing support and maintenance: Providing server management, custom app development, public dashboards, and regular maturity assessments to guide future improvements.
Strengthening Data-Driven Health Systems
By combining the complementary expertise of HISP Vietnam and HISP UiO, this partnership represents a significant investment in Cambodia’s health information infrastructure. The approach combines technical upgrades with skills development, ensuring the Ministry of Health can manage, maintain, and expand DHIS2 independently—leading to better data quality, stronger supply chain management, and more informed health policy decisions.
Background
HISP UiO coordinates the global development of the open-source DHIS2 platform, providing leadership in digital health and education systems. HISP Vietnam is a long-standing regional DHIS2 expert, supporting Ministries of Health across Southeast Asia in system deployment, customization, and capacity building. UNICEF works with governments and partners worldwide to strengthen health systems and improve outcomes for children and families. In Cambodia, DHIS2 will serve as the national platform for integrated health information management, supporting the country’s goals for efficient, transparent, and data-driven health service delivery.
