Higher-level education in Myanmar is still problematic as a result of decades of military rule. Plagiarism, bribery for grades and cheating remain common practices. The lack of dormitories means safety is a concern for students who do not live near their campuses; most study at satellite colleges, while some opt for distance learning, but electricity is not always available. Many universities lack the trained staff and proper tools, instruments equipment needed to conduct lessons. The nationalisation of universities has also led to political agendas affecting academic freedom; a new national education policy was not well-received by the government.

Regardless, reforms to the landscape are under way. With the support of the World Bank and other partners, Parliamentary committees led by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi will be working on reforming higher education, with two of the aims being to increase university autonomy, and to give students the freedom to choose academic disciplines. Unions are also being revived to advocate for students' and teachers' rights.

For more information, please visit https://cn.nytimes.com/asia-pacific/20130510/c10myanmar/en-us/
Photo: James F Clay, Flickr