Burma is one of the most ethnically diverse nations in the world. Besides the majority Burman people, the borders of Burma are home to 135 ethnic minority groups.
Decades of persecution by the Burmese government upon these ethnic minority groups eventually led to civil war between the Burmese military and these indigenous peoples in 1948.
This is currently the world’s longest ongoing civil war. Tens of thousands of people have been forced to take refuge on the Thai-Burmese border. This year, escalating conflicts since the military coup on February 1st, 2021 has led to further displacement of these ethnic groups.
About 150,000 people remain in the refugee camps today.
Homes and families weren’t the only things taken away by war. War has stolen dignity, hope, and for too many of these indigenous peoples, reasons to keep on living. In times of marginalization and crisis, education has always been a source of stability and hope for a better future.
Our mission is to empower refugee and migrant youth by securing the right of education. For the past two years, we’ve been supporting 60-80 students at the Mae Ra Moe Junior College (MRMJC), a post-secondary school located in the Mae Ra Moe refugee camp. This year, we’re extending our support to four more higher education institutions among other refugee camps on the Thai-Burmese border. We are providing school supplies and teacher stipends for 534 students and 60 teaching staff. At each of these post-secondary institutions, students are building the skills they need to make a difference within their communities.
“The first step, I hope to use my education to work in any organization to earn money for upholding my family. The second step, I am going to distribute my knowledge to people who are interested in studying by becoming a teacher.”
“Education is the most powerful weapon to change the world. If I get an education, I will help my Karen people. I hope I will be a doctor or a nurse. Then, I can help my neighbours.”
“Education is the most powerful weapon to change the world. If I get an education, I will help my Karen people. I hope I will be a doctor or a nurse. Then, I can help my neighbours.”
302,000 HKD or 38,867 USD
This gives 534 students access to education, supports 60 teaching staff, and pushes Burma towards a future led by a generation of world-changing leaders.
Donations of any value are greatly appreciated by us and the refugee and migrant students and teachers!