Amid Myanmar's evolving landscape of education and democratic reform, one young man’s journey offers a testament to the transformative power of learning and leadership. Zin Myo Kyaw completed his undergraduate degree in Myanmar Literature from Mandalay Yadanabon University of Distance Education, but his path truly shifted in 2018 when he joined the Parami Leadership Program (PLP). It was during this time that he realized something profound: advancing higher education was crucial to addressing the challenges faced by his community. Myanmar’s transition into democracy and economic reform needed to prioritize the development of young minds, and he felt compelled to be part of this change.
One of his vivid memories from PLP was a ferry trip to Dala, led by U Ba Win, during the Writing & Thinking Workshop. U Ba Win is from Myanmar and worked as a senior administrator at Bard College at Simon’s Rock in Massachusetts. The intensive writing workshop allowed the students to explore fascinating writing haikus, share them, and perform at the Nawaday Tharlar Gallery. Debates in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics classes sharpened his critical thinking while moderating a public touchstone discussion, which helped him build connections, broaden his perspectives, and open new intellectual doors for him.
“The discussion-based learning environment encouraged me to see problems from multiple angles and develop critical, logical solutions.”
As someone who has benefited from a liberal arts education, he credits it with shaping his personal, professional, and academic growth. “The discussion-based learning environment encouraged me to see problems from multiple angles and develop critical, logical solutions.” It was through this education that he began to understand the importance of addressing the needs of his community while fostering a sense of global citizenship. He found himself more confident in sharing ideas and learned to value the perspectives of others in discussions—skills that would carry him far beyond the classroom.
After completing PLP, he knew his role in the world was to contribute meaningfully to the future of education in his country. This realization led him to join Parami University, where he became a PLP student and later a Senior Development Officer, weaving his personal growth with the institution’s evolution.
Zin reflected on how the COVID-19 crisis brought uncertainty, but it also revealed the strength of Parami’s community. Partner organizations, donors, and staff came together with unwavering dedication to keep programs running smoothly. Flexibility and mutual understanding turned a difficult time into one of inspiration and resilience, leaving him with meaningful memories of the strength of collective effort.
In his professional life, working at Parami over the last four years has been nothing short of transformative. He found immense joy in engaging with community-based schools, organizing events, and connecting with alumni nationwide. He found his work fulfilling and eye-opening. He learned how Parami’s leadership team successfully navigated the transition from Parami Institute to Parami University, a monumental shift that inspired him to approach challenges in his own career with resilience and innovation.
“Parami became more than just a workplace or a school—it became the foundation of my future.”
Zin was particularly inspired by the individuals in Parami University’s leadership, who returned to Myanmar after completing their studies abroad to contribute to the country’s development, which sparked a similar desire in him. This inspiration led him to pursue further studies for a Master’s degree in Global Studies at Bard College, where our president, Dr. Kyaw Moe Tun, went to college. “Parami became more than just a workplace or a school—it became the foundation of my future,” he highlighted.
For him, Global Studies is the perfect fit. His passion for youth and community development was nurtured while working at Parami University, and Bard is helping him build the skills and perspectives necessary to engage as a global citizen. The future is unpredictable, but he hopes to use his degree to reconnect with young people in Myanmar and contribute to education and development projects that will have a lasting impact on the community.
“With its strong foundation in liberal arts and sciences, Parami will continue to grow and nurture the next generation of leaders.”
The future leaders will be equipped not only with the critical thinking and creativity necessary to address Myanmar’s challenges but also with the empathy and compassion needed to make a global impact. He envisions a bright future for Parami University: "With its strong foundation in liberal arts and sciences, Parami will continue to grow and nurture the next generation of leaders.”
As he continues his journey, the lessons he learned at Parami will guide him as he navigates new challenges and opportunities. In doing so, he will carry forward the spirit of Parami, helping to shape a brighter future for Myanmar and beyond.
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