By Kantarawaddy Times
The military council is working to reopen universities in Loikaw, but some residents believe this effort is merely a facade to present an image of stability in the region.
Despite ongoing clashes in Loikaw Township, the military council announced on October 15 that the Loikaw Education Degree College had resumed operations, becoming the first institution to reopen under a boarding school arrangement.
The council also plans to reopen the Technological University, Computer University, and the Government Technical and Vocational College in November.
A resident remarked, “Even though the universities are supposedly reopening, students still can’t attend. Day classes haven’t resumed yet, and the Technological University remains under military control. Fighting still occurs in these areas. It feels like the authorities are trying to create an illusion to attract residents back.”
Additionally, another resident expressed concerns over the lack of security guarantees for students and teachers. “When teachers were arrested previously, there was no accountability or protection from the authorities. To this day, there are no security assurances for those who attending classes. How can students feel safe going back to school?” they questioned.
Several areas within Loikaw Township—such as Daw Oo Ku, Nar Nan Taw, Chike, Bardo, Htay Nga Lyar, and Naung Yar—are still under military restrictions, with residents facing limited freedom of movement until the end of the year, according to locals.
The Computer University scheduled to reopen in November is located in the Chike village tract, while the Technological University is in Mine Lone ward, where clashes took place in July. Residents have not yet returned to the area due to ongoing security concerns.
It is also reported that the military council is pressuring teachers to return to work to facilitate the reopening of universities. “They said they would reopen the Education College and nursing schools. They’re telling female teachers that they have no choice but to return,” shared one education staff member.
Since the military takeover, many students, teachers, and staff from universities and colleges in Karenni State have joined the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM).
In November 2023, during the military’s large-scale offensive, resistance forces had to rescue faculty members, including the rector of Loikaw University, along with their families, due to the military’s failure to provide protection. Many students are skeptical about attending the institutions being reopened by the military council.
Meanwhile, the council has been promoting images of cleaning efforts and preparation activities at these universities and colleges on its pro-military Telegram channels, suggesting progress towards reopening educational facilities.
