Chiang Mai, Thailand: Born in the remote Lahe township of Myanmar’s Naga Self-Administrative Zone, 28-year-old Kobi (name changed), at an age when many of his peers are in the Myanmar military service, made the daring choice to pursue education abroad, finding refuge in Thailand amidst the political turmoil gripping his homeland.
Kobi, from the Lainong Naga community, arrived in Thailand 10 months ago, leaving behind a nation where young men are increasingly being recruited into military service under a law mandating enlistment for those aged 18 to 35.
“It’s difficult to stay in Myanmar with the current situation,” he told EastMojo. “The military is not protecting the people; they are fighting for power. Many of us decided to move out—some to Malaysia, Laos, Vietnam, Japan, and others like me to Thailand.”
Kobi’s academic journey began in Yangon, Myanmar’s largest city. He graduated from high school in 2015 and earned a Bachelor’s degree in 2019. He later worked as an assistant researcher for an NGO focusing on the peace process and governance structures.
Kobi and two of his brothers were listed to join the Myanmar military.
“When the military’s recruitment drive intensified, my parents had to inform the authorities about our whereabouts. They told them we were out of the country for education,” he shared. “Returning to our native place meant risking mandatory service.”
A scholarship from a Thai university allowed Kobi to pursue a Master’s degree in Public Policy. His education is supported by tuition coverage, accommodation, and a part-time job with a funding organisation.
Kobi’s choice to leave was not without personal conflict. Some of his friends joined the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), an ethnic armed group fighting for their people’s rights. “I also thought of joining, but I needed to study. Education is the only way I can raise my voice for our marginalised community,” he explained.
Myanmar’s Naga region suffers from systemic neglect, with poor infrastructure, inadequate educational opportunities, and limited government support. “In high school, one teacher would handle multiple subjects due to the lack of staff. Transportation was a challenge, and no one wanted to work in remote Naga areas unless it was for a promotion after a year’s service,” Kobi recalled.
With his research background, Kobi aspires to advocate for marginalised communities, particularly the Naga community in Myanmar.
He believes education can transform lives but emphasises the need for systemic reform. “Even within Myanmar, there is no equal opportunity. Indigenous languages are not taught in schools, and many may disappear,” he said.
Kobi also pointed out the stark contrast between the Indian and Myanmar Naga regions, partitioned across the two countries. He recalled a 2019 visit to the India-Myanmar border at Longwa where he observed that Indian Nagas had better access to education and development.
“Myanmar’s political situation is terrible compared to India. Education and roads are far better in Nagaland,” he remarked.
Though Kobi dreams of a union with Nagas across the international border, he is realistic about the challenges. “Integration into one nation may not be possible. The fight right now is against the military. A federation within Myanmar’s government could allow us to represent ourselves and make decisions for our people,” he suggested.
Kobi continues his studies in Thailand as part of an international programme with students from Myanmar, the Philippines, Kenya, and Nigeria. While he carries the burden of supporting his farmer mother and pastor father, he remains steadfast in his belief that education is the key to breaking the cycle of marginalization.
“Nagas need to think beyond borders. Education is our weapon to fight injustice, not just for ourselves but for future generations,” he said.
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