The military junta plans to increase the salaries for ethnic language teachers in order to attract more teaching staff for the upcoming academic year.
According to a statement from the Department of Ethnic Literature and Culture, the junta has approved salary increases starting December 2025, for Teaching Assistants (TAs) from 130,000 to 190,000 kyats, and Language Teachers (LTs) from 60,000 to 120,000 kyats.
Ethnic language teachers have both school duties and teaching responsibilities, just like primary school teachers, but due to unequal pay and benefits, many quit since COVID-19, leaving almost no recruits in the 2025–2026 academic year.
Although the average salary has been raised to 60,000 kyats, it is still uncertain whether vacant positions can be filled, reported an education staff member from Thanbyuzayat.
“Very few people want to apply for TA/LT jobs. It’s hard to say if it’s because of the salary or other reasons. Some schools are struggling to find people willing to take these roles,” she added.
According to education staff, some TA and LT teachers have already been receiving the increased salaries of between 190,000 and 120,000 kyats since December 2025.
Education staff said the salary increase for TA and LT teachers is likely, but it may only be officially confirmed in the next academic year.
A Mon ethnic language teacher from Mudon Township said the current salary increase is still not enough to address rising living costs.
“With rising prices, it can only help a little. Unless long-term job security is guaranteed for experienced TA/LT teachers, the shortage of ethnic language teachers will continue,” he said.
According to the Department of Ethnic Literature and Culture, ethnic language teachers are required to teach their subject for at least five hours per week.
In Mon State, ethnic language teaching is conducted in eight townships for Mon and Karen, and in four townships for Pa-O.
In the previous academic year, basic education schools in Mon State recruited for TA and LT positions, but few applicants applied.
