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Myanmar

Despite of fast growth of the economy until 2019 (GDP growth rate 6,8%), Myanmar remains in the UN list of least developed countries. Covid-19 has triggered a socio-economic crisis and the poverty rate is increasing. Furthermore, the military coup on February 1, 2021 has increased societal instability and brought a halt to its democratic progress. In the current rapidly evolving situation, it is challenging to assess future developments and risks.

Myanmar civil war, which began after the country´s independence in 1948, ranges the longest continuing conflict in the world. The roots of the conflict go back to the constitution that denies ethnic minorities the level of autonomy they claim. Human rights violations in the conflict areas conducted by the military have been targeted especially to individuals belonging to ethnic minorities.

Implementing partner: Eden Centre for Disabled Children (ECDC)

Project description

Myanmar’s education system is weak, and especially disabled people’s right to education is poorly realized. Chin state, where the project is conducted, is the least developed state. According to the 2014 census, Chin State has the second highest number of persons with disabilities compared to other states of Myanmar (7.4%, country as a whole 4.6%). The majority of people with disabilities in the area do not get to school, and those who do enter often drop out of school. Children with disabilities find it particularly difficult to get to schools in the project area because the terrain is mountainous and the roads are in poor condition. Support schemes have also not been developed to support schooling for children with disabilities, and teachers lack the knowledge and skills to teach children with disabilities.

The project development goal

Accessing quality education by Persons with Disabilities from target remote areas is improved yearly in both formal and non-formal education as Inclusive Education (IE) policies is introduced and implemented.

Examples of key activities

  • Providing in-service and pre-service teacher training.
  • Developing data collection and documenting system to monitor, plan and improve quality services.
  • Facilitating to develop social inclusion guideline. Introducing alternative education program for adult persons with disabilities.
  • Creating vocational training opportunities for persons with disabilities and/or their family members.
  • Publishing and distributing IE and disability related IEC materials.
  • Prevention of disabilities through supporting nutrition and essential supplementary for pregnant women.
  • Awareness rising event and half day training with stakeholders.