August Military Actions and University Occupation
In August 2024, Myanmar’s military junta intensified its use of universities as strategic locations amid escalating clashes with the People’s Defence Forces (PDFs) and ethnic armed groups opposing the regime. As the military prepares for potential combat, several universities located on the outskirts of cities are being commandeered.
Mandalay and University of Technology (Yatanarpon Cyber City)
In Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, heightened military engagement has been reported. On August 7, leaflets were distributed at the University of Technology (Yatanarpon Cyber City) warning of imminent military operations. The university, located on the Mandalay-Lashio Road near Pyin Oo Lwin, is seen as a strategic site for military defense due to its location.
The interim council of the university, established post-coup to facilitate online learning, reported that military forces had previously occupied the 216-acre campus shortly after the February 2021 coup. The military’s presence has disrupted educational activities, with a significant portion of the student body and faculty participating in the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) or joining revolutionary forces.
Impact on Education and Recruitment
The military’s use of educational institutions for operations has led to significant disruptions. Students and staff are often trapped or forced to evacuate, with some universities becoming de facto military camps. In response to conscription laws introduced in February 2024, the junta has enforced mandatory enlistment, causing severe distress and leading to suicides among conscripted youth. Despite a temporary exemption for students, this has proven largely ineffective.
University Recruitment Drives
Recent efforts by the junta include recruitment drives at universities. At Dagon University and the University of West Yangon, military officials have attempted to recruit students, offering financial incentives and distributing propaganda. At Dagon University, officials even confiscated students’ smartphones during these sessions.
Changes in University Status
The junta’s control has led to significant administrative changes, including the removal of Taungup University from the list of approved institutions on August 18. Reports indicate that junta forces have occupied the campus, firing heavy weapons and displacing staff and students.
Conclusion
The ongoing military conflict has severely impacted Myanmar’s higher education sector, with universities being repurposed for military use and student recruitment drives disrupting academic life. The situation continues to evolve as resistance forces and the military clash, further complicating the landscape for education and governance in Myanmar.
