Karenni Education Programme, Mae Hong Son
JRS has been working with the Karenni Education Department (KnED) in the two Karenni refugee camps - Ban Mai Nai Soi (Camp 1) and Ban Mae Surin (Camp 2) - in Mae Hong Son Province since 1997.
As the major educational NGO working in these refugee camps, the objective of the programme is to support the KnED at all levels of management to ensure that their educational system is effective, sustainable and inclusive. In order to achieve this, we support the KnED in several sectors:
We are currently providing assistance to over 7,000 children and 450 teachers in 11 primary schools, 5 middle schools and 2 high schools in two camps. The primary goal of this support is to ensure the continuity of education while simultaneously developing the capacity of Karenni educators for future self-sufficiency.
Teacher TrainingThe Karenni Teacher Training Center (KnTTC) provides much needed training in teaching methodology and technique. Refugee teacher trainers have been trained and are now training new and experienced teachers. Once graduates complete the course they return to camp schools to apply what has been learned.
Primary and Secondary Curriculum, Materials and Stipend Support JRS provides basic educational materials to schools, teachers and students. Teachers and educational staff are also provided a small stipend. There are on-going efforts to develop quality and culturally relevant curriculum.
Special Education (SE) Special education programming is provided both within the schools and at the special education center for cases where inclusive education is not yet possible. Parents and children come to the center for educational activities and support. Special education assistants also make regular visits to home-bound children.
Life Skills Program In recognition of cultural and practical realities a school based vocational program has been incorporated into the secondary curriculum. Social issues such as drug and alcohol use, HIV/AIDS, adolescent health, and decision making are also addressed through the curriculum.
Home School Liaison Program (HSLP) A home school liaison staff member is placed in each school to help connect school and family, prevent student drop-out and monitor vulnerable student populations. The HSLP program also conducts participatory research on educational issues to better information educational policy development.
Vocational Training Non-Formal Education Program (VTNFE) The VTNFE was established in response to the need for livelihood skills training within the two Karenni camps. The program was initiated after a needs assessment in 2005 and formally opened in 2006. Both sites offer a range of courses taught by refugee trainers. These trainers receive regular training, often from experts from the town of Mae Hong Son or elsewhere within Thailand. Program courses include agriculture, language, nutrition, electronics/mechanics, computer, alternative medicine and blacksmith.
Management and Capacity Development JRS works closely with the Karenni Education to identify areas of need and support development of those needs. Issues such as policy development, participatory decision making, educational design and program management have been areas of focus.