By Min Zan

 

THE future of any nation lies in the strength, skills, and education of its peo­ple. A well-educated population is not only a key driver of economic growth but also the foundation of a healthy, just, and prosperous soci­ety. In this light, education is more than just a personal achievement — it is a national investment. For a country like Myanmar, with a youthful and vibrant population, it is essential to ensure that every school-age child has access to quality education without inter­ruption.

 

In every corner of the world, education is widely recognized as a fundamental human right and a powerful tool for social change. It helps individuals rise out of pov­erty, empowers communities, and strengthens democratic institu­tions. The progress of a country depends not only on the abun­dance of natural resources or tech­nological advancements but also on the capability and knowledge of its people. That capability, in turn, originates from an education sys­tem that is inclusive, accessible, and forward-looking.

 

The Role of Education in Na­tional Development

Education is the key that unlocks the full potential of a na­tion’s human capital. When people are equipped with the necessary knowledge, skills, and values, they can contribute effectively to soci­ety in various ways — through in­novation, service, leadership, and productivity. Educated citizens are more likely to make informed deci­sions, support democratic govern­ance, practice healthy lifestyles, and promote peace and social harmony.

 

Countries with high literacy rates and strong education sys­tems tend to enjoy higher stand­ards of living, better healthcare, greater economic stability, and more equitable development. For Myanmar, a country undergoing various stages of transformation and development, prioritizing ed­ucation is not just an option — it is a necessity.

 

The Ministry of Education, recognizing the importance of nurturing the next generation, has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting basic education for all children regardless of their back­ground, gender, or region. An in­clusive education system ensures that no child is left behind and that every child receives the opportu­nity to learn, grow, and succeed.

 

Alarm Over Education Gaps in Myanmar

According to the 2019 Inter­censal Survey, nearly one-third of Myanmar’s population has low levels of educational attainment. A significant proportion of citizens did not complete even primary education, and many dropped out before reaching adolescence. This is a concerning statistic that high­lights the challenges in retaining students within the formal educa­tion system.

 

There are many reasons be­hind this educational gap. Pover­ty, lack of transportation, family responsibilities, early marriage, and in some areas, conflict and instability, contribute to children being unable to attend school. In other cases, cultural attitudes and a lack of awareness about the im­portance of education also play a role.

 

This situation not only affects the future of the children involved but also undermines the develop­ment potential of the entire na­tion. When a significant number of young people grow up without sufficient education, they face limited employment opportuni­ties and are more vulnerable to exploitation, poverty, and margin­alization. Moreover, an uneducat­ed population weakens the social fabric and reduces the country’s competitiveness in an increasingly globalized world.

 

Parental and Community Re­sponsibility

Ensuring children stay in school is not the sole responsi­bility of the government. Parents and guardians play a crucial role in supporting their children’s educa­tion. Their attitude toward learn­ing, their commitment to enrolling their children in school, and their continued encouragement can make a profound difference in a child’s academic journey.

 

It is essential for caregivers to recognize that education is not a luxury — it is a basic necessity. Just as children need food, shel­ter, and protection, they also need education to lead successful and meaningful lives. By enrolling their children in school and supporting them along the way, parents give them a chance to break the cycle of poverty and become productive, capable members of society.

 

Furthermore, when families and communities actively partic­ipate in education — by attend­ing school meetings, monitoring progress, and fostering a learning environment at home — children tend to perform better academical­ly and stay in school longer.

 

Schools as Nurturing Spaces

Schools are not only places where students learn how to read, write, and count. They are also spaces where children develop critical thinking skills, creativity, emotional intelligence, and so­cial awareness. It is where young minds are moulded, where confi­dence is built, and where lifelong values such as honesty, responsi­bility, and cooperation are instilled.

 

Good schools and commit­ted teachers have the power to change lives. Through engaging lessons, meaningful mentorship, and supportive learning environ­ments, children are empowered to dream big and pursue their goals. The importance of creating such spaces cannot be overstated.

 

Modern educational methods emphasize student-centred learn­ing, where the child’s interests, abilities, and potential are at the heart of teaching practices. This method helps to spark curiosity and encourages children to ex­plore knowledge in a way that is both meaningful and personal. By developing their intellect and character, schools lay the founda­tion for capable and responsible citizens.

 

National Campaign: Enrol Every Child

In an effort to ensure that no school-age child is left behind, the Ministry of Education has an­nounced the School Enrollment Week for the 2025–2026 Academic Year, which runs from 22 May to 1 June. During this week, parents and guardians are strongly en­couraged to enrol all children of school-going age in the nearest school.

 

This year’s campaign is being held under the theme:

“Let’s Enrol All School-Age Children for Continuous Learn­ing.”

This call to action reflects the government’s determination to provide inclusive and equitable quality education to all children across the nation. It also serves as a reminder to families, communi­ties, and local leaders that educa­tion is a collective responsibility.

 

Across urban and rural areas, school authorities are working to ensure that enrollment processes are smooth, transparent, and wel­coming. Teachers and education officers are also reaching out to communities, especially in re­mote and disadvantaged areas, to spread awareness and help over­come any barriers to enrollment.

 

KG+12 System: A Step Toward Education for All

To promote continuous learn­ing and universal access to educa­tion, the Myanmar government is implementing the KG+12 system. This includes one year of Kinder­garten followed by 12 years of basic education (from Grade 1 to Grade 12). Under this system, every child is encouraged to attend school up to the completion of upper second­ary education.

 

The government is also striv­ing to ensure that essential learn­ing materials are available, school buildings are maintained, teachers are well-trained, and transporta­tion is provided in certain areas. In addition, the education sector is working on curriculum develop­ment, inclusive education policies, and digital learning initiatives to meet modern-day challenges.

 

By investing in the KG+12 system, Myanmar aims to uplift the overall quality of its education system, close educational gaps, and prepare young people for the demands of the 21st century.

 

A National Effort: Everyone Has a Role to Play

Building a strong and resil­ient education system requires the cooperation of all stakehold­ers. Parents, guardians, teachers, school administrators, community leaders, local organizations, and civil society must work together to support children’s education. Local authorities should provide the necessary resources and in­frastructure, while civil society can contribute through aware­ness campaigns and outreach programs.

 

Media outlets also have a role to play by disseminating messages about the importance of education and the school enrolment cam­paign. Religious institutions and traditional leaders can help mo­bilize communities, especially in rural areas, to value education and ensure that every child is given the chance to learn.

 

It is especially important to focus on vulnerable groups — chil­dren from low-income families, girls, children with disabilities, etc. Special efforts must be made to identify and support these children so that they, too, can benefit from the promise of education.

 

Investing in the Future

Education is not a short-term project — it is a lifelong investment in human development and na­tional prosperity. Enrolling every school-age child in school is the first step toward building a more inclusive, skilled, and empowered generation.

 

As the 2025–2026 academic year approaches, let us come to­gether with a sense of urgency and commitment to ensure that no child is left behind. Let us visit our neighbourhood schools, talk to parents and guardians, spread the word, and help families un­derstand the immense value of education.

 

To put it in a nutshell, the path to a better future begins with a sin­gle act: enrolling a child in school. Let us act today so that every child in Myanmar has the opportunity to learn, grow, and lead our nation toward peace, development, and lasting success.