On 15 and 16 July 2025, the SEA-PLM Regional Secretariat, led by representatives from the SEAMEO Secretariat, in collaboration with Myanmar’s Ministry of Education, successfully conducted the 1st Country-Level Strategic Workshop in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar. Teams put “evidence-to-policy” front and center, and equity trade-offs in decision simulations that asked a simple question: which interventions will lift foundational learning fastest ?
Dr Zaw Latt Tun, Deputy Director General of the Department of Education Research, Planning, and Training, delivered an insightful presentation on the progress of Myanmar’s Education Sector Reform Agenda. Highlighting ongoing efforts, she emphasized the country’s long-term commitment, referring to Myanmar's special four-year education development plan (2000-2004) and the comprehensive 30-year long-term basic education plan (2001-2031). Dr Tun explained that these plans aim to enhance access to and quality of education, underpinning national development and preserving Myanmar’s rich cultural heritage.
One of the workshop’s highlights was the discussion on Myanmar’s National Action Plan, presented by Deputy Director General U Aung Htike from the Department of Myanmar Examination. He outlined Myanmar’s strategic initiatives derived from the SEA-PLM 2019 results, such as promoting early learning and increasing school enrolment, particularly in disadvantaged communities. The presentation included innovative steps like developing literacy and numeracy guidebooks and an instructional video to support teachers and students. Mr Aung Htike noted that “these actions are designed to bridge learning gaps and ensure all children receive the foundational skills essential for lifelong success”.
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Dr. Mya Htet Htet Aung delivered opening remark |
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Workshop sessions and during the Country-Level workshop in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar
Representing the SEA-PLM Regional Secretariat, Deputy Director for Programme and Development Mr John Arnold Siena expressed gratitude to Myanmar's Ministry of Education for the successful implementation of the SEA-PLM 2024 Main Survey. He mentioned, “With at least two comparable data points over time, Myanmar is now in a stronger position to contribute to international reporting on SDG 4.1.1b, which tracks minimum proficiency in reading and mathematics at the end of primary education”. This comparative analysis enhances the Ministry’s ability to understand learning trends and formulate effective policies informed by regional assessment data.
The workshop concluded with a reaffirmed commitment from Myanmar’s Ministry of Education to continue leveraging SEA-PLM data for ongoing educational improvement. This strategic alignment not only supports Myanmar’s educational reform goals but also contributes significantly to the regional effort towards achieving sustainable development goals.
As Myanmar prepares for the release of SEA-PLM 2024 results later in this year, the insights and collaborative outcomes from this strategic workshop provide a robust foundation for sustained educational progress and policy innovation.
