Students studying at universities in Mawlamyine, Mon State, report that they are being encouraged to attend military training courses offered by the military junta with promises of military service exemption.
Students say that teachers at Mawlamyine University are promoting the military training courses, claiming that upon completion, students will receive not only exemption from military service but also expedited processing of ID cards and passports, as well as tax exemptions.
“They’re saying we’ll get these privileges. If you have a course completion card, it’s easier to travel. They especially target students living in dormitories. They don’t approach people from outside. They say distance education students aren’t eligible – this opportunity is only for day students,” said a female a dormitory student.
Parents of university students have also expressed concerns about their children being required to participate in military training courses similar to military service.
According to university students, the military council began offering these military training courses for university teachers and students for the 2024-2025 academic year on 10 February at Mawlamyine Education Degree College.
A source in Mawlamyine reports that the University Training Corps-3 under the Directorate of People’s Militia and Border Forces, Office of Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services, will conduct a three-month training course for teachers and students from Mawlamyine universities who have voluntarily applied.
“When I asked teachers at Mawlamyine University, they didn’t specify how many people they need to send. They’re just collecting names by specialization. I heard the training is being held at Mawlamyine Education Degree College,” the source said.
A female student from Mawlamyine University said that students with close ties to junta families are registering and attending the course.
It is also reported that some female students who do not want to attend the training have returned to their hometowns.
According to pro-military media channels, the military training will include both basic and advanced military training, with regular class sessions and camp-based training periods.
Analysts note that as the junta faces defeats across the country, it has resorted to various methods to replenish the ranks. Like military service trainees who have been sent to frontline positions, anyone receiving military training from the junta could be deployed for combat at any time.
The military training courses were reportedly launched on 10 February in junta-controlled territories including Taunggyi in southern Shan State, Naypyidaw, Kamayut Township in Yangon Region, Pathein in Ayeyarwady Region, Taungoo in Bago Region, and Mawlamyine in Mon State.
Sent by IMNA.