In memory of our beloved daughter, Suu Myat Than, whose promising life ended tragically at just 20, we established the Suu Myat Than Education Foundation. Suu embodied extraordinary resilience and dedication, working while studying and saving nearly $20,000 toward her aspirations. Inspired by her tireless efforts, our family and community rallied, donating an additional $21,000 to seed this foundation. The Suu Myat Than Education Foundation reflects her core values: hard work, compassion, and a profound belief in the transformative power of education for the people of Myanmar.
Myanmar's educational system is currently facing a severe and unexpected disruption. These highly unstable conditions, coupled with the sustained collapse of higher education, have forced thousands of students and educators to leave the country. Without a clear path to fulfilling their academic dreams at home, countless young people have sought refuge and educational opportunities across Southeast Asia, often in countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia. For instance, Ton Duc Thang University in Ho Chi Minh City alone currently hosts over 60 Myanmar students striving to rebuild their futures. Unfortunately, financial barriers frequently block their access to higher education, turning displacement into desperation.
Despite the overwhelming need, the Foundation is actively working to bridge this gap. We made our first award in 2024, granting a $1,200 scholarship to a deserving student at Ton Duc Thang University. Building rapidly on this success, the Foundation significantly expanded its reach in 2025, providing 30 scholarships to young scholars. This year, we are committed to continuing this momentum by funding a new class of ten deserving students, with each award valued at $1,200. These funds help cover essential expenses such as tuition and housing, providing a vital lifeline to students displaced by conflict and turmoil.
The future of Myanmar depends on its youth—and they need your support now. Your contribution is a direct investment in human capital, ensuring that the light of education is not extinguished for this generation of leaders. Every donation directly empowers a resilient young person, giving them the resources and hope needed to pursue their dreams and ultimately help rebuild their nation.