All basic education schools nationwide are set to reopen on 3 June. However, over 5,000 displaced students in the Gyaing River area are encountering challenges in accessing schooling. according to individuals assisting internally displaced persons (IDPs),
Locals from more than 10 villages including Kawthat, Kawtswei, Kawbein and Kawtpauk villages along Ramawaddy road near Gyaing basin which was a battlefield, have been displaced for months.
The individual assisting the IDPs said that efforts have been made to coordinate with officials from various Mon social organizations, companies, and private schools to facilitate the continuation of education for students. However, reaching a consensus on this matter has proven to be elusive thus far.
“The reopening of schools is imminent, yet the question remains unanswered regarding where children residing along the Gyaing river will attend classes. Presently, our return to the village is hindered by the military council’s insistence for IDPs to go back home. We are actively coordinating with social organizations, companies, and private schools to ensure that children can continue their education,” said the individual assisting the IDPs.
ÒPursuing education is a big problem for our displaced children,” he added.
There are over 5,000 students in pre-schools, primary, middle and high schools in more than ten villages along Ramawaddy road in Gyaing River region.
Despite the military council’s plan to reopen all schools in the region for the 2024-2025 Academic Year, displaced children have scant opportunities to pursue their education.
“The parents who are financially able have chosen to send their children to safer locations, like towns. However, for those who cannot afford education expenses, sending their children to Thailand has been the only option. I worry that this will greatly impact the children’s education this year,” said the student’s parent.
Currently, the Mon State cabinet under the military council is urging the displaced to return to their homes in order to carry out rehabilitation in the village, but the residents are still unable to return home due to the security situation.
Since 24 and 25 March, young students moved to Chaungsone, downtown Mawlamyine, Kawkareik and Hpa-An, along with their parents, following the junta’s shelling and arson.
During the 2023-2024 Academic Year, the nationwide school attendance rate saw a rise, reaching seven million students.
According to the report by the Ramanya Institute for Strategy and Policy Analysis, the attendance rate could decline once more in the upcoming academic year.
Sent by IMNA.