Buddhist monasteries have traditionally fulfilled
the function of schools in Myanmar, particularly in rural areas. After
the Shin-pyu ceremony, young boys spend several weeks in a monastery,
learning to recite the Sutras (Buddhist texts). They must follow
a strict code of discipline. During this period, they learn how to address
their superiors and perform chores in the monastery.
Myanmar also has a system of formal, secular
education. Education is free and compulsory between the ages 5 and 9. Secondary
and university students pay small tuition fees. Both teachers and students
wear green and white uniforms. Children attend primary school for four
years, and junior high school for another four years. Senior high school
is only two years. Students must pass exams before moving up to the next
grade and the competition is very stiff. Some children, especially those
in the rural areas, drop out after four years of education because their
families need them to work in the fields. |
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As well as learning the Burmese and English languages,
students learn history, geography, mathematics, science and social studies.
The government has been trying to improve the educational system by encouraging
attendance and building more schools.
Students who complete high school may attend vocational
schools, teacher training schools or university. Vocational schools teach
accounting, computer skills, engineering, and machine repair and maintenance.
University education has been undergoing reorganization to improve standards.
The government has increased spending on education to respond to the demand
for better university courses. The two best-known universities are in Yangon
and Mandalay. |
Did you know? |
In
1970, Myanmar won the UNESCO award for its effective literacy campaign.
Since then, however, the literacy rate has fallen because of political
and economic problems. |
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Education in the professions, such as medicine,
engineering and architecture, is much in demand, because it leads to well-paying
jobs. Many women study obstetrics, gynecology or pediatrics because in
Myanmar it is not acceptable for male doctors to touch women patients.
Did you know? |
According
to the Guinness Book of Records, the most extraordinary feat of
memory occurred in Myanmar in 1954. Bhandanta Vicitsara recited 16,000
pages of Buddhist canonical texts from memory. |
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