ULA launches Arakan National University to expand higher education access

By Admin 20 Mar 2026

DMG Newsroom

20 March 2026, Mrauk-U

The Education Department under the United League of Arakan (ULA) has announced the establishment of Arakan National University to provide higher education opportunities for youths whose studies have been disrupted.

The university will offer fourth-year courses and fifth-year Law programmes, as well as Distance Education and Day classes for the 2026–2027 academic year. Applications are currently being accepted.

Youths in Arakan State have welcomed the initiative, citing limited access to education in recent years.

“I see this as a major opportunity for youths like us whose education was interrupted. Many young people in Arakan State lack access to education, partly due to limited internet connectivity. With these higher education programmes, we now have a chance to continue our studies,” a female youth said.

Applicants must have completed their third year (Distance or Day) in a relevant major at any university. For Law programmes, those who have completed their fourth year are eligible. Applicants must reside in Arakan State, and the course duration is one year.

For Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) programmes, available subjects include Myanmar, English, Geography, History, Philosophy, Psychology, Oriental Studies, Law, Economics, and International Relations/Political Science, among other humanities and social science disciplines.

For Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) programmes, subjects include Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Zoology, Botany, and Geology, as well as other science disciplines. Upon completion, degrees such as B.A., B.Sc., B.A.(Q), B.Sc.(Q), and LL.B. will be awarded.

Applications can be submitted to Township Education Offices with the required documents before the April 21 deadline.

“At a time when opportunities are scarce, providing higher education for youths with disrupted schooling is an important step toward building a better future. It will help nurture educated young people to contribute to Arakan State,” said a youth in Kyauktaw.

Since renewed fighting in Arakan State in 2023, schools have been closed and universities inaccessible, forcing many students to suspend their education.

The military’s “Four Cuts” strategy and disruptions to telecommunications have further limited access to online learning, leaving many youths without educational opportunities.

Despite these challenges, young people say the new initiative offers renewed hope.

“At a time when many youths feel discouraged about their future, the creation of a pathway for higher education is a significant achievement,” said a youth in Mrauk-U.

The Arakan Army (AA) currently controls 14 townships in Arakan State and has been expanding administrative and public service systems, including education. Since 2024, efforts have focused on reopening schools, with the latest initiative extending to higher education.