Amidst ongoing armed resistance, only 38 basic education schools reopened in Chin State as Myanmar commences its new academic year on June 3.

Basic education schools opened in Hakha, Falam, Mindat, Matupi, and Tedim townships, with only a minority of students returning to classrooms. Schools remain closed in Paletwa, Tonzang, Kanpetlet, and Thantlang townships.

"Six schools in Hakha, ten in Falam, four in Mindat, and fifteen in Matupi reopened. However, despite enrollment acceptance for 27 schools in Tedim prior to the clashes, only four, including those in Khaikam town, have been able to resume classes”, head of the Chin State Education Department said.

While six schools in Hakha township have reopened, there has been a decrease in the number of high school students attending compared to the previous year.

"Though schools are reopening, student attendance dwindles each year. With low high school enrollment, all students in the town gather at No. 1 Basic Education High School (BEHS-1). Many war-displaced individuals hesitate to return, while others fear conscription by the Junta, contributing to significantly low enrollment rates”, a parent said.

During the previous academic year, 328 schools were opened, and 35,434 students were enrolled across all townships in Chin State except Thantlang, according to statistics from the Chin State Education Department.