A Review of Language Planning, Policy and New

Education Programme in Myanmar

Abstract

Alongside its main language, Burmese, Myanmar counts 135 spoken

languages along with at least two main sign languages, many dialects and foreign
languages, making it one of the most multilingual societies. Since 2014, discussions
all across Myanmar have been underway on language policy and education system to
be updated. Sponsored by the Language and Social Cohesion (LESC) Initiative of
UNICEF in close cooperation with the Myanmar Ministry of Education, 16
“Facilitated Dialogues” held in different states of the country, several research
projects, a large number of direct consultations and site visits, interviews,
observations and professional training activities have been implemented. At state
level there have also been writing teams, information gathering, discussion groups,
learning circles and other activities addressing co-ordination issues, multilingual
program delivery, curriculum, textbooks, teacher support, and the role of policy and
how citizens can participate in policy debates. The activities of the Myanmar National
Language Policy have involved state parliamentarians, Ministry of Education officials
and language and culture committees, civil society organizations and individuals, both
professionals and community representatives. Through these activities a wealth of
ideas has been generated about the best ways for Myanmar to make the most of its
rich linguistic resources, language policy and education system. The national
language policy process relates to reforms in education and society, as well as
economy and the law. To fully realize the benefits of a quality national education
system, the Myanmar Government has implemented a new National Education
Strategic Plan (NESP) during the period 2016-2021. This paper will explore
especially on language planning, policy and new education programme and discuss
some of the key achievements and steps so far.

Keywords: multilingual society, language planning, facilitated dialogues, policy and

new education programme.

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