Yan Lin Aung — University examinations have been suspended due to Covid-19 cases now officially present in Myanmar. On March 23rd, the Ministry of Health and Sports announced two patients have been infected with COVID-19.

Universities in Yangon, Myitkyina, Pathein, Yadanabon, Pangong,Taunggyi, Monywa University, and Magway also announced the suspension of examinations.

Professor Dr. Aung Myint Kyaw Sein, from Mawlamyine University reported that since we learned of “confirmed COVID-19 cases at 11:30 p.m. last night. We made phone calls with the Department of Higher Education this morning. Also, we called for a meeting at the university this morning. We then decided to halt the examination process.  Exams will be resumed when things get better.”

Students from Mawlamyine University are required to leave their dormitory by March 24th, said Ko Min Thant Zin Oo, from the Mawlamyine University Student Association.

“We are going to leave the dorm today 24th March. Some villages in Kyar Inn Seik Gyi asked people to leave, who are not locals.  They did not allow new people in. If we go back to our places, we might face some restrictions,” said Ko Min Thant Zin Oo.

Universities have urged students to return home as soon as possible and to follow the instructions of the health department.

First-semester  university and college exams were scheduled to  take place throughout the country, for approximately 300,000 students.