Myanmar's Civil War Wreaks Havoc on Education System

Intensified fighting in Myanmar's civil war has led to a significant rise in attacks on schools, disrupting education for millions of children. Myanmar Witness reported 174 attacks on educational institutions since the military takeover in 2021. The crisis, compounded by economic struggles, has displaced over 3 million people and left many children in food poverty.

Intensified fighting in Myanmar's civil war has resulted in a significant uptick in destructive attacks on schools, according to a report by Myanmar Witness released Saturday. The conflicts have further weakened the already fragile educational system, depriving millions of children of their right to education and basic health services.

Myanmar Witness, a project under the UK-based Centre for Information Resilience, identified 174 attacks on schools and universities since the military ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi three years ago. These findings were corroborated by evidence from social media and news reports.

Other organizations report even higher numbers, with the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack noting over 245 incidents in 2022-23. The crisis has led to an 80% drop in student enrollment following the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent military takeover, leaving millions of children without schooling.

(With inputs from agencies.)