Due to the rising cost of living and inflation, teachers at Mon National Schools have expressed hope for an increase in their financial support. However, according to the Union of Mon National School Teachers in Mudon Township, as the new academic year approaches, it remains uncertain whether any adjustments to their monthly stipend will be made.
Currently, financial support for Mon National School teachers primarily comes from donors. It is unclear how much support will be received from donors for the 2025–2026 academic year, and whether any changes will be possible, said a teacher from Mudon.
“We’re not sure yet if the support for teachers will increase or decrease for the 2025–2026 school year. Since this month marks the beginning of project planning for the next year, we don’t yet know the status of donor contributions,” the teacher explained.
At present, Mon National School teachers receive around 150,000 MMK per month. Teachers at primary, middle, and high school levels also receive additional modest support, depending on their teaching level.
“Our teachers are working primarily out of patriotism and commitment to our community. However, the support they receive is very low, and for many, it becomes difficult to remain in the teaching profession long-term. It poses a challenge for their families as well. That’s why there is such high teacher turnover. If possible, even a small increase in their stipends would be helpful, especially considering today’s cost of living,” said a member of the Working Committee of Mon National School Teachers in Thanbyuzayat.
Comparing the current stipend of 150,000 MMK to today’s economy, it is equivalent to the country’s minimum wage. Meanwhile, salaries in the private sector, such as retail shop assistants, range from 250,000 to 400,000 MMK per month.
Due to financial hardship, some teachers have left their jobs or switched to other work, resulting in a shortage of teachers in Mon National Schools. There is also a growing need for experienced educators.
As donor funding remains limited, schools in townships and villages where Mon National Schools are operated have begun forming local fundraising committees to help supplement teachers’ stipends.
Despite these challenges, officials from the Mon National Education Committee have reported that the number of students enrolling during this year’s school registration week has increased compared to previous years.
