Supportingstudents in camps

Since the military coup in February 2021, Myanmar has been in a state of humanitarian crisis. In April 2024, the military junta commenced compulsory conscription for all young men (18-35) and young women (18-27), triggering new levels of turmoil as young men and women attempt to flee the country.    Even while democratic elections were permitted from 2015 up until the coup, war and violent conflict continued in Kayah, Southern Shan and Kachin States and within many other areas home to Myanmar's Indigenous groups. Today, over one third of Myanmar’s population (56 million) is living in extreme need. More than 2.8 million people in Myanmar are displaced - these women, men and children have been forced to flee their homes. Access to basics like education, healthcare and employment are severely limited. For families living in the crowded IDP camps, education for children is a major concern. With repeated displacement, and no end to the conflict in sight, many parents are worried about ensuring their children have access to formal education. With the generous support of our Australian community, Jesuit Mission is supporting our local partner in Myanmar to provide access to safe and quality education for over 3,700 children living in Internally Displaced People (IDP) camps. Whilst also providing emergency relief such as medicines, shelter, food and clothing. With a key aim to minimise disruption and reduce barriers to accessing quality education experienced by displaced children and youth, the program trains and supports teachers and education leaders to improve education strategies, and learning spaces, materials and content.  Myanmar's youth face major risks; in the academic year 2023-2024, only 5.8 million children out of 13 million school-aged children enrolled at basic education schools nationwide. The coup has severely disrupted the country’s economy, and employment prospects. Additionally, pervasive human rights abuses and violence have left deep scars within the population. The classes allow young people to gain self-confidence and motivation to continue their education, so that they have the opportunity for a better future. Recognising the long journey toward reconciliation in Myanmar, the program also provides psycho-social support and peace building initiatives.