The Challenge
Following Myanmar’s 2021 military coup, hundreds of healthcare workers joined the Civil Disobedience Movement, refusing to work under the military junta. This has led to a critical shortage of nurses and doctors , particularly in conflict zones like Karenni State. With thousands displaced into camps and local healthcare systems near collapse, there is an urgent need to rebuild medical capacity. Recent freezes on international aid have further impacted on the delivery of essential health services.
Project activities
This project aims to strengthen the healthcare workforce through strategic capacity building.
Working through established networks, the project will:
- Support the development of Karenni Medical College’s teaching programmes
- Connect international nursing and medical experts with local healthcare workers through online learning platforms
- Develop accredited training programmes for nurses and doctors
- Build sustainable healthcare education systems in a conflict zone
Why This Matters
Access to healthcare is a fundamental human right. In conflict zones, building local nursing and medical capacity is essential for community survival and resilience. This project focuses on creating a well-qualified and sustainable workforce led by and for the Karenni people, ensuring communities can access vital healthcare despite ongoing conflict.
The partnership approach
Partners collaborating on this project include:
- Civil Disobedience Movement nurses and midwives networks
- Myanmar Young Leaders Programme alum
- University of Medicine Magway Alumni Association
- Karenni doctors’ networks
- International nursing and medical experts
