Mandalay students return to school after 7.7-Magnitude quake
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Htet Nadi (NP News) - June 3
Following the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025, Mandalay Region has made significant strides in recovery. Despite the challenges, basic education schools across the nation, including those in Mandalay, reopened for the 2025–2026 academic year on May 2, 2025. Students have reportedly returned to their studies peacefully and happily.
The earthquake caused widespread destruction, particularly in Mandalay and Sagaing Regions, resulting in over 3,000 deaths and more than 5,000 injuries. Infrastructure such as schools, bridges, and roads suffered significant damage, and many residents were displaced.
Dr. Than Htike Soe, principal of No. (16) Basic Education High School stated, “Today, basic education schools, monastic schools, and private schools are opening. Our school has implemented 100% earthquake-proof measures, giving parents confidence in their children’s safety. Currently, we have around 3,300 students. We are also taking daily steps to ensure student safety during arrivals and departures, supported by joint teams, including the Myanmar Police Force. For those who haven’t yet enrolled due to distance or other reasons, we are accepting enrollment throughout the month of June. We warmly encourage parents to come and register their children.”
A parent of a student also said "This year, my children will be studying in Grade 1 and Grade 7. As parents, the most valuable thing we can give our children is education. Since I am a government officer, I make sure to send them to school no matter where I am assigned to work. Natural disasters can happen at any time, so I’ve taught my children how to act and stay safe if such dangers occur. If anything happens while they’re at school, I’ve advised them to listen to their teachers and follow instructions to stay safe. For every parent, their child is like a precious gem. That’s why, regardless of the circumstances, we make sure our children get to school and receive an education, so they can build a bright future for themselves."
To ensure that students who attend school can travel safely and study safely, Myanmar Traffic Police officers are assisting schools located close to major roads in Mandalay. Township administrative groups, fire brigades, and Myanmar Police Force members in the respective townships are also providing security inside and outside the schools.
In the previous academic year, 3529 basic education high schools, middle schools and primary schools, 268 monastic schools and 246 private schools, a total of 4043 schools were opened in Mandalay Region, with 1023290 students attending. Efforts have been made to open almost all basic education schools, monastic schools and private schools for the 2025-2026 academic year, compared to the previous academic year. On May 2, schools have started opening and students are being taught lessons in accordance with the curriculum according to the grade level.