During the military coup in February 2021, I was working as a lecturer at a university in Myanmar, deeply involved in my academic and research endeavors. The takeover marked the beginning of a chaotic period that drastically changed not only my life but also the lives of many in academia. As a member of the higher education community, I quickly realized the importance of democracy as the foundation of intellectual freedom and academic progress. This belief motivated me to join the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM), as I understood that democracy is essential for fostering critical thinking, diverse perspectives, and innovation in education and research.
Despite knowing the risks involved, I remained committed to the fight for democracy, as I believed it was crucial for academic integrity and the pursuit of knowledge. Joining the CDM was not just about my own future, but about the future of education and intellectual freedom in Myanmar. The consequences were severe – I lost my job, research projects were halted, and my career was put on hold. This only emphasized the importance of our struggle and the military’s efforts to suppress academic freedom.
Prior to the coup, Myanmar had been making significant progress in upgrading its education sector as part of its democratic transition. However, these advancements were swiftly reversed by the military takeover. Universities were in disarray, educational programs suspended, and research institutions disrupted. The coup led to a significant brain drain, with many students and academics leaving the country, impacting the future potential for innovation and progress in Myanmar.
Despite these challenges, there has been resilience within the academic community. Educators and students have continued their work in defiance of oppressive conditions, with some regions establishing alternative education systems in resistance-controlled areas. Even those who have left Myanmar are contributing to education initiatives from abroad, hoping to return one day to rebuild the nation. The collective vision is for a brighter future in Myanmar, driven by a belief in the country’s potential for development across various sectors.