Freedom to Education for Young People in Myanmar

Thank you so much for your interest and ongoing support of Health & Hope’s Freedom to Education Programme (FEP). We are pleased to share this short update about our students as they continue to progress through their studies.

Between July and October this year, we continued to support a total of 70 FEP students i.e 34 students are in class 12 and 36 students in university through scholarship assistance and pastoral care programs. The period from July to September 2025 marked several academic milestones and notable achievements among the students, alongside a few challenges.

FEP University Students Update

The FEP team maintains regular contact with all university students to ensure their overall well-being and monitor their academic progress. Continuous communication helps the team provide timely support and encouragement to students as they navigate their studies. The team also engages with college principals and faculty members to closely monitor students’ academic performance, attendance, and other related matters. Through this coordination, the team is able to address academic or personal challenges faced by students and extend necessary guidance and assistance to help them succeed in their respective courses. As of now, all the students continue their regular classes and are preparing for their end semester exams.

Class 12 Students Update

The Class 12 students have been attending their classes regularly and showing steady progress in their studies. During this quarter, they completed their First Term Examinations, and several students performed exceptionally well, securing top positions in their respective classes. Their achievements reflect their dedication and the continuous support provided by the team.

However, a few students continue to face challenges in their learning journey. Some of them struggle to cope with academic expectations due to language barriers and limited learning resources. Despite these difficulties, the team remains committed to providing close guidance and academic support to ensure that every student is able to perform to the best of their ability.

There have also been a few health-related challenges among the students. Unfortunately, one student had to discontinue studies this year due to severe health issues. The team has taken necessary steps to ensure that the student receives appropriate care and remains connected with the community.

The programme continues to focus on the holistic development of students by supporting their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Regular follow-ups, mentoring, and pastoral care sessions are being conducted to help students manage stress and stay motivated in their education. The team remains dedicated to walking alongside each student, offering the encouragement, resources, and care they need to continue their studies successfully.

Pastoral Care Programme

Pastoral care sessions were conducted regularly online for all students under the program. These sessions focused on students’ mental well-being, motivation, and personal development. Individual and group counselling were provided to help students navigate academic stress and life challenges, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Academic Achievements

This quarter witnessed outstanding academic accomplishments among FEP students:

• Gold Medallist: One of the graduates from B.Sc. Agriculture, Shillong, was awarded a Gold Medal for academic excellence.
• One student from the Arts stream secured 2nd Position in the overall stream.
• Four other students achieved 1st and 2nd positions in their respective classes.
  This strong academic performance reflects the students’ commitment and the guidance provided by teachers and mentors.

These achievements highlight the dedication and hard work of our students, as well as the positive impact of continued academic support.

Testimonial

My name Aung (name changed). I am currently pursuing my Bachelor of Computer Application (BCA) and I am in the third semester. It has always been my dream to study computer science and build a better future for myself, my family and my country.

Coming from a small town, I faced many challenges, especially financial difficulties. But thanks to the support from FEP, I have been able to continue my education with hope and confidence.

FEP has truly been a blessing in my life. They have provided me with financial support, which has helped me pay for my tuition fees and other important needs. Without their help, it would have been very difficult for me to stay in college and focus on my studies. Their support has lifted a heavy burden from my family, and for that I am deeply grateful.

More than just financial help, FEP has also been there for me emotionally and personally. They shared their experiences with me, which gives me strength and motivation. Whenever I face any problem whether in my studies or in life, they are always ready to listen and guide me.

They treat me with kindness and care, I feel like I am part of a family that truly wants the best for me. Because of their support, I am able to concentrate on my studies and improve myself every day. I am learning new skill in my Computer Application. I feel more confident, more focused, more determined to succeed. Their help has made a big impact on my life, and I will always carry this support in my heart.

I would like to impress my sincere thanks to all the donors who make this support possible. Your generosity and kindness are changing lives, including mine. You are helping students like me to dream bigger and work harder.

I promise to make the most of this opportunity and to give back to others in my future.

Thank you once again for your support. May you continue to bless many more students with your kindness.

We are continually amazed at the tenacity and dedication of our students in spite of the tremendous challenges they face as their homeland continues to be ravaged by civil war. Each student values this precious opportunity, knowing well that thousands of other young people from Myanmar sadly will not be able to pursue an education. Thank you for helping to raise the next generation of leaders who we hope will someday take the reins of government.