[myanmar_information] The New Light of Myanmar (Saturday, July 12, 2003)

Subject: [myanmar_information] The New Light of Myanmar (Saturday, July 12, 2003)
From: Ok Kar <okkar66126@xxxxxxxxx>
Date: Sat, 12 Jul 2003 18:46:04 -0700 (PDT)
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The New Light of Myanmar (Saturday, July 12, 2003)
--------------------
1. Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt delivered an address

at the ceremony to mark the 2003 World Population
Day
2. Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann inspects construction of
Thanlwin Bridge
3. Lt-Gen Maung Bo attends cornerstone laying ceremony

for construction of main building for Hpa-an
University
4. Ministry of Culture holds paper-reading session
5. Ministers, entrepreneurs seek means to develop
tourist industry
6. Matriculation exam results announced
7. 9,000 students recite Dhammaçakka Sutta at
Shwedagon Pagoda
8. Myanmar delegation leaves for Malaysia
9. Narcotic drugs seized in Mandalay

--------------------

1. Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt delivered an address

at the ceremony to mark the 2003 World Population
Day

Young Myanmar people enjoying opportunities as never
before to uplift their standard of living and quality
of life

Myanmar considers its youths to be one of the greatest
assets in the country

Yangon, 11 July - The ceremony to mark the 2003 World
Population Day was held at International Business
Centre on Pyay Road at 8 am today, with an address by
Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council
General Khin Nyunt.

Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt delivered an address.
He said:

First of all, may I wish you a happy and healthy life
filled with auspiciousness. It is a great pleasure for
me to have this opportunity to address this auspicious
gathering on the occasion of the Commemoration of the
World Population Day which falls today. It is the
fourteenth successive time Myanmar is observing the
World Population Day, underlining our commitment to
the goals, objectives and activities of the United
Nations. Countries all over the world will also be
marking the day with celebrations and special events
to raise awareness of the population related issues
facing the world today. This year we celebrate the
World Population Day with the theme "1 billion
adolescents: the right to health, information and
services".

It is most appropriate that we devote our attention to
adolescents of the world. The population of the world
is currently estimated at 6.3 billion. Out of this
population, over 1 billion are young people between
the ages of 15 and 24. Most of them live in the
developing countries and teenage population is
estimated at over 550 million.

Unfortunately, many of the adolescents in the world
cannot enjoy the right to good health or get necessary
information and services. Most adolescents and youths
have limited knowledge about their bodies and are
vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections,
substance abuse, exploitation and violence.

In the world today, AIDS has become the most
devastating disease yet faced by humanity striking on
average 14,000 men, women and children daily. More
than 60 million people have been infected and AIDS has
already killed more than 20 million people. About 50
per cent of the HIV infections occurred among young
people between the age of 15 and 24, many of whom
suffered the disease before they are 20. But it needs
not to be so. The spread of the disease can be
reversed by educating, empowering and mobilizing young
people. It is therefore incumbent upon the nations of
the world to lay down national programmes aimed at
preventing infection among young people.

Adolescents in the world, including those in the
developed countries, face many economic and social
ills. Use of narcotic drugs, committing of crimes, and
perpetration of violence by youth gangs are some of
the problems facing the nations of the world. Indeed,
there had occurred instances in some western nations
where teenagers had shot and killed many of their
schoolmates and teachers. As such, the time has come
for all nations to take measures individually and
collectively to ensure that the youths have a chance
for better life.

The current population of Myanmar stands at 52.4
million and the young population between the ages of
15 and 24 is estimated to be about 9 million. With the
guidance and support of the Government and the noble
teachings of Myanmar's rich culture and traditions,
Myanmar adolescents and youths enjoy better quality of
life and higher social values than many of their
brothers and sisters in other parts of the world.

It is universally accepted that early marriage and
early motherhood can severely curtail educational and
employment opportunities and are likely to have a long
term impact on the lives of young people and their
children's quality of life. However, 82 million girls
in the developing countries will be marrying before
they are 18. Each year, 15 million girls aged 15 to 19
gave birth and 4 million undergo abortions, often in
unsafe conditions.

In the case of Myanmar, the age at marriage is
generally high. Women who married in 1970s got married
at age 19 and for those marriages in 1990s, the age of
marriage is 22 years. The age at first birth has also
risen. It has contributed in reducing the number of
births occurring in the adolescent years when health
risk to mothers and children are greater.

The proportions of both women and men never marrying
have also been increasing continuously over time.
About 98 per cent of men and 93 per cent of women aged
15 to 19 years, and 77 per cent of men and 65 per cent
of women aged 20 to 24 are not married. Hence, the
number of teenage girls marrying and childbearing,
exposing them to health risks, is very low in our
country.

Myanmar considers its youths to be one of the greatest
assets in the country. The Government is therefore
paying great attention to the all-round development of
our adolescents.

While a comprehensive health programme including
health education programmes for youths is promoted
nation-wide, our education system is guiding our young
people to the path of high moral standards as well as
preparing them to meet the challenges of life.

Today, young Myanmar people are enjoying opportunities
as never before to uplift their standard of living and
quality of life.

In this regard, I wish also to acknowledge the
important role played by the United Nations agencies
like the UNDP and UNFPA as well as the international
and national NGOs like the Myanmar Maternal and Child
Welfare Association (MMCWA) in developing our young
people.

Myanmar is fully aware that adolescents and young
people are important in shaping the future of the
nation.

Therefore, while endeavouring to promote its own
nation-building development tasks, Myanmar will be
enthusiastically cooperating with the nations of the
world in promoting the development of young people,
especially adolescents.

Myanmar is determined to continue playing an active
role in population-rated programmes while
strengthening its collaboration and cooperation with
all nations and United Nations Agencies such as UNDP,
UNFPA, WHO etc; and also with relevant local and
international NGOs.

In conclusion, let us all aspire with the noble aim to
promote the quality of life of the adolescents and
young people and equip them with the necessary tools
so that they will become leading citizens of the
world.

Let us also aspire to implement the lofty aims of this
year's World Population Day- "1 billion adolescents:
the right to health, information and services".

Next, UNFPA Resident Representative Mr Najib M Assifi
read out the message sent by UNFPA Executive Director
Ms Thoraya Abaid.

The Secretary-1 presented prizes to winners in the
Poster Open Level and Poster Open Level-5 Contests.

The Secretary-1 and party viewed the exhibition to
mark the 2003 World Population Day at IBC.

Afterwards, Minister for Immigration and Population
Maj-Gen Sein Htwa, Deputy Minister U Maung Aung,
President of MMCWA Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe and UNFPA
Resident Representative Mr Najib M Assifi presented
prizes to the winners in the respective contests to
mark the 2003 World Population Day.

Later, the ceremony ended with the entertainment with
the World Population Day commemorative song on
Adolescent Reproductive Health presented by MMCWA.

Also present on the occasion were Chairman of Yangon
Division Peace and Development Council Commander of
Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe, ministers, the Chief
Justice, the Attorney-General, the Auditor-General,
the mayor of Yangon City, deputy ministers,
ambassadors and charges d'affaires of foreign
missions, resident representatives of UN agencies,
representatives of NGOs, officials of the State Peace
and Development Council Office, departmental heads,
the director-general of Population Department, prize
winning students and guests.

---------

2. Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann inspects construction of
Thanlwin Bridge

Administrative bodies and departmental organizations
urged to win respect, trust and reliance of people

Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann inspects construction of
Thanlwin Bridge

Yangon, 11 July-Member of the State Peace and
Development Council Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann,
Secretary-2 of the State Peace and Development Council
Lt-Gen Soe Win, member of the State Peace and
Development Council Lt-Gen Maung Bo, arrived at
The-ein Village in Paung Township, Mon State, on 8
July morning.

Next, they met with teachers and students,
village-elders at Affiliated The-ein Middle School of
Thei-ein Village. Chairman of Paung Township Peace and
Development Council U Mya Kyaing reported on
households and polulation of The-ein Village, progress
in cultivation of monsoon paddy and other crops,
condition of motor roads leading to Paung and Thaton.

Afterwards, Headmaster U Lwin Moe Naing of Affiliated
The-ein Middle School reported on the strength of
teachers and academic matters.

Next, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win made a speech. He
said that they were there to inspect development of
Mon State and Kayin State including rural development
and fulfil the needs.

The majority of the people reside in rural areas and
the government has been making efforts to bring about
equitable development in all states and divisions to
the most possible degree. They will make arrangements
for development of The-ein Village.

Next, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann gave necessary
instructions on upgrading of the Affiliated Middle
School and the Rural Health Care Branch.

Next, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win presented 100 dozens
of exercise books for students through Headmaster U
Lwin Moe Naing. Next, Chairman of Village Peace and
Development Council U Chaw spoke words of thanks.

Next, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann and party presented gifts
to the aged persons and paid homage to them.

Afterwards, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann and party proceeded
to The-ein Taikkyaung and paid homage to Sayadaw
Bhaddanta Nimmala. They presented offertories to the
Sayadaw.

After inspecting the village and the rural health care
branch, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann and party left the
village and arrived back in Thaton.

At 9.45 am, they met with local authorities,
departmental officials and social organizations at
Thuwunna Hall in Thaton.

Thaton District Peace and Development Council Chairman
Lt-Col Tin Aung reported on cultivation of monsoon
paddy, other crops, pepper, Thitseint, breeding of
pig, poultry, prawn and fish.

Next, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win made a speech. He
said that they were there to inspect regional
development and meet with administrative bodies of
Thaton District, Thaton Township, ward and village
Peace and Development Councils, service personnel and
local people.

It was a great pleasure to witness the regional
development and earnest efforts for cultivation of
monsoon paddy and other crops. The local people are
engaging in farming while the government has been
striving for better transport in Mon State including
Yangon-Mawlamyine Highway. In the process, Thepyu
Creek Bridge, Kawsanaing Bridge, Yinnyein Bridge and
Donthami Bridge have been upgraded.

For agriculture purpose, Wapa Dam and Zeikkaye Sluice
Gate were constructed. Due to the facilities,
altogether over 81,000 acres of farmlands can be
prevented from floods.

As Kataik Dam and Kyonhtaw Sluice Gate are being
constructed, it is sure that significant progress will
be made in Mon State soon.

For enhancing education and health standards of people
in Thaton District, steps are being taken for
enrollment of all school-age children to enable them
to pursue basic education as well as higher education.

The government has been making earnest efforts for
upgrading of agriculture, livestock breeding,
transport, education and health sectors.

Concerted efforts are being made since an old system
is being changed into a new one.

Realizing the event, local authorities and department
officials are to actively take part in nation-biulding
endeavours. In making efforts in the interest of
people, the respective officials are to avoid the acts
that are detrimental to the administrative machinery
of the State.

Efforts are to be made to become the administrative
bodies and departmental organizations on which the
people can rely. At the same time, initiatives are to
be introduced in striving for the interest of the
State and the people.

Afterwards, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann made a speech. He
said that the government is implementing the national
obejectives for ensuring the emergence of a peaceful,
modern and developed nation.

At the same time, it is building the Tatmadaw to
enable it to become a modern and efficient one.

The two goals are interrelated in ensuring the nation
to stand tall among world community.

The building of a modern and developed nation is not
for Tatmadaw and the building of a modern Tatmadaw is
not for Tatmadaw either.

It was for perpetuation of the State and security of
the people.

Significant progress has been made the length and
breadth of the nation since the government is striving
together with the people after laying down the
national objectives and policies. Peace and stability
that could not be restored by the successive
governments can now be built.

With the prevalence of peace and stability in the
region, progress has been made with added momentum in
border areas.

People in Thaton District are to make earnest efforts
for development of their region while striving for
peace and stability in the region.

The local administrative bodies and departmental
organzations representing the Government are to make
efforts to become ones who can take a leading role in
community welfare services and to win the respects of
the public.

In taking measures skills and cetana are required as
well as procedures are needed to be right.

In addition, in implementing the tasks rules and
regulations are to be followed.

Regional and national development can be made with the
combined efforts of the service personnel and the
government.

The Secretary-2 presented exercise books for basic
education schools in Thaton District to Mon State
Education Officer U Aung Myo.

Next, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann cordially met with those
present.

At 11.15 am, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann and party arrived
at No 1 Tyre and Rubber Product Factory of the
Ministry of Industry-2 in Thaton.

At the briefing hall, Managing Director U Oo Zun of
Myanma Tyre and Rubber Industries reported on
operating of the factory to produce tyres beginning
1985, manufacturing of 24 kinds of tyres and three of
bicycle tyres at present and investment of the
factory.

Deputy Minister for Industry-2 Lt-Col Khin Maung Kyaw
gave a supplementary report.

The Secretary-2 gave instructions on use of bicycl
tyres for the Ministry of Industry-1-made bicycles,
development of rubber technology to be shared among
the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation and the
Ministry of Industry-2 and the Ministry of Industry-1
and raw materials to be produced in local.

Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann heard reports on availability
of raw materials and machinery and gave necessary
instructions.

Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann and party inspected the tyre
compound section, raw materials from local and abroad,
production sections, items of car tyres and bicycle
tyres produced by the factory and rubber equipment for
the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation and the
Ministry of Mines.

On 9 July morning, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann and Lt-Gen
Maung Bo arrived at Khayon Agriculture Educative Farm
of Myanma Agriculture Service at Khayon Model Village
in Kyaikmayaw Township and inspected cultivation of
Kyawzeya paddy strain. They also inspected paddy
plantations at the farm and digging of Khayon drain
for reclaiming 4,216 acres of vacant lands near
Khayongu Hill. Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann met officials
and workers instructions. They cordially met with
local farmers of Khayon Model Village. Next, they saw
over digging of canal for reclaiming the vacant and
virgin lands near Khayongu Hill. Reclamation of 4,216
acres of wetland, vacant and virgin lands have been
carried out since 2001-2002. A total of 13 canals
which are 164,350 feet long are being dug.

Next, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann and party proceeded to
Thanlwin Bridge (Mawlamyine) Construction Project
where they were welcomed by Minister for Rail
Transportation Maj-Gen Aung Min, Deputy Commander of
South-East Command Brig-Gen Myo Hla and officials of
Public Works.

At the briefing hall of the project, Managing Director
of the Public Works U Nay Soe Hlaing reported that
when completed, the Thanlwin bridge (Mawlamyine) would
be the longest one in Myanmar, and there would be
direct access to Mon State, Kayin State, and
Taninthayi Division. As it was constructed on
Yangon-Mawlamyine-Dawei-Myeik-Kawthoung Union Highway,
Kawthoung could be reached in a short time.

Next, Chief Engineer U Han Zaw reported on tasks being
carried out for the construction of the bridge and the
fixing of frames. Deputy Superintending Engineers U
Myo Chit and U Ohn Han also reported on progress in
the construction of the approach road and the main
bridge.

Next, Minister for Rail Transportation Maj-Gen Aung
Min reported on earth work being carried out for the
approach bridges of the Thanlwin bridge and
arrangements for the construction of Mawlamyine
railway station. The minister also said that the
Ministry of Rail Transportation is constructing
857-foot Yay Creek bridge and it will be completed in
September; that the upgrading tasks for Yay railway
station is under way; and that when the construction
of Yay Creek bridge is completed, Mawlamyine-Yay-Dawei
trip can be made within a day.

Later, Lt-Gen Maung Bo gave instructions on the
construction of Mawlamyine station. Next, Lt-Gen Thura
Shwe Mann also gave instructions, saying that the
Thanlwin bridge (Mawlamyine) will help promote the
regional development; that efforts are to be made to
complete the bridge construction works in targeted
time meeting with set standards; and that constant
care must be taken in project sites for the work site
safety and security of the bridge and workers.

Next, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann and party inspected
progress in the fixing of iron frames to the main
bridge on Mawlamyine bank and the construction of
piles. The Thanlwin bridge (Mawlamyine) is the bridge
with one railroad and two motor ways and is built of
steel frames. For the motorway, the approach bridge on
Maylamyine bank is 1,624 feet long, while the approach
bridge on Mottama bank is 2,252 feet long. The length
of the main bridge is 7,699 feet long. The total
length of the whole structure of the bridge is 11,575
feet long.

For the railroad, the approach bridge on Mawlamyine
bank is 8,716 feet long, while the approach bridge on
Mottama bank is 10,051 feet long. The length of the
main bridge is 7,699 feet long. The total length of
the whole structure of the bridge is 26,466 feet long.

Almost cent per cent of the construction of the
approach bridge on Mawlamyine bank is completed, while
the construction of the approach bridge on Mottama
bank is 80 per cent completed. The workers of the
project are striving to accomplish the construction of
Thanlwin bridge (Mawlamyine) by 2004.

While Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann and party were inspecting
the Thanlwin bridge (Mawlamyine) construction project,
Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win and party met with local
authorities, departmental officials, employees, and
social organizations at the Town Hall of Mawlamyine.

Chairman of Mon State Peace and Development Council
Commander Thura Myint Aung reported on development
conditions of agriculture, livestock breeding works
and industrial sectors in Mon State; arrangements for
the cultivation of pepper plants on 10,000 acres of
land, the cultivation of Thitseint trees and perennial
crops, and the implementation of the aims of economic
plans for 2003-2004. Speaking on the occasion,
Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win said that the urban and
rural affluence in Mon State is encouraging. They are
the fruitful results of cooperation between local
administrative bodies, the employees and the people
under the leadership of the Government. It can
obviously be witnessed that all the states and
divisions in the country are undergoing development.

The Government constructed Azin Dam, Shwenattaung Dam,
Winphanon Dam, Wapa Dam, and Bilin Reservoir and
sluice gates in Mon State. For the development of
education sector, a total of 148 basic education
schools were opened and there have now been 1,353
schools in the region. Four universities and colleges
were also opened in the region. Likewise, for health
care services, the number of hospital increased to 5
hospitals and 62 doctors were appointed. Moreover, the
200-bed hospital was also upgraded to the 350-bed
hospital.

Mon State is enjoying food sufficiency and is also
endowed with land and water resources. Regional
tranquillity and the prevalence of law and order is a
basic factor in the realization of the development of
Mon State. The national consolidation is also as vital
as the regional peace and stability. All the divisions
and states, where national brethren are living
together through thick and thin, represent small
unions. Therefore, it is necessary to further
strengthen the national consolidation and to cherish
the Union Spirit. It cannot be denied that the
national spirit and the Union Spirit have been
essential since the times of our forefathers. New
generations to come are also to vitalize these spirits
for ever.

After the ceremony, the Secretary-2 and party went to
Mawlamyine University, where they were welcomed by
rector U San Tint, professors, lectures, and faculty
members. At the hall of the university,
Director-General of the Higher Education Department
(Lower Myanmar) U Saw Lwin reported on post-graduate
courses, the strength of faculty members and
employees, and the population of students. The
Secretary-2 gave instructions, saying that the
university teachers are those who are producing
highly-qualified good sons of the country. Therefore,
the teachers should nurture students with good
intentions for the emergence of good sons the State
can rely on in future.

Next, the Secretary-2 and party inspected the library
of Mawlamyine University. During the visit to
Mawlamyine Industrial Zone, the Secretary-2 and party
heard a report on setting up of the zone and
allocation of industrialists at the zone presented by
officials. The Secretary-2 explained the need to
increase car and farm machinery production of the
zone. Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe
Win and Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party inspected progress
in erecting the approach structure of Thanlwin Bridge
(Mawlamyine) on Mawlamyine bank, installation of steel
frames, and erection of piers of the project. Later,
they inspected development of Paung, Thaton, Bilin and
Kyaikhto regions.

While Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann and party were visiting
Thaton District , the Secretary-2 and party were at
Padonma Soap Factory in Paung Township, looking into
the production requirements and process of the
factory. It was built by the Ministry of Industry-2.

At the No 14 Sugar Mill in Bilin Township, they heard
a report on salient points of the mill, and at No 1
Sittoung Paper Mill in Kyaikhto Township, they
inspected the transport of bamboo from the jetty to
the factory. They also inspected the process in
producing paper and exercise books.

On arrival at Sittoung Bridge in Kyaikhto Township,
Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win and
Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party were welcomed by Chairman of
Bago Division Peace and Development Council Commander
of Southern Command Brig-Gen Ko Ko, Commander of No 77
Light Infantry Division Brig-Gen Than Htay and
officials. From there, they went back to Yangon by
car. A member of the team Deputy Minister for Health
Dr Mya Oo also inspected a number of hospitals in
various townships during the tour.

---------

3. Lt-Gen Maung Bo attends cornerstone laying ceremony

for construction of main building for Hpa-an
University

Yangon, 11 July - The opening of the signboard saying
"Build Modern Developed Nation Through Education" and
multimedia classrooms of No 4 Basic Education High
School in Hpa-an, Kayin State, took place at the
school on 5 July morning.

The outstanding students of the school formally
unveiled the signboard.

Next, the opening of the multimedia classrooms
followed. Lt-Gen Maung Bo formally unveiled the
signboard to mark the opening ceremony. Lt-Gen Maung
Bo and party viewed the studies of the students at the
classrooms. The students presented skill
demonstrations.

The principal and the chairman of the school board of
trustees reported on collective efforts made for
opening of the classrooms. Lt-Gen Maung Bo presented
books and video tapes on teaching aids to the
principal.

Col Cho Tun Aung presented K 4 million for the school
trust fund to the chairman of the school board of
trustees. The school board of trustees donated K 1.6
million to the school trust fund through No 1 Basic
Education Department Director U Tun Kyi.

Lt-Gen Maung Bo delivered an address on the occasion,
saying that the development of highly-qualified human
resources is necessary for building up a peaceful,
modern and developed nation. Myanmar's education
standard is therefore to be on a par with
international level and it is also required to create
an educational field in which the intellectuals and
intelligentsia can apply the advancing technologies in
keeping with the time, he added.

In the process, the 30-year education promotion plan
is being implemented. Since 1998, the education
promotion plans have been adopted, and based on the
e-Education the subjects of advanced technologies have
been prescribed. In the first phase of the plan,
arrangements have been made for opening of multimedia
classrooms in basic education schools.

It is encouraging to note that so far, in Kayin State,
altogether 30 BEHSs have got third-level platform
multimedia classrooms, 40 BEMSs, second-level platform
and the majority of BEPSs, first-level platform.

In the 21st Century or the knowledge age, all nations
are focusing on education sector for their
development. Thus, the goal "Build Modern Developed
Nation Through Education" is being implemented for
enabling the basic education schools to face
challenges of the knowledge age. The opening of
multimedia classrooms at basic education schools is a
golden chance for the students to pursue and apply the
broad education in an effective way. He called for
effective use of the classrooms.

Lt-Gen Maung Bo expressed his thanks for respective
organizations and wellwishers for their enthusiastic
contributions towards the opening of the classrooms.

He said that education promotion task is a national
duty which is to be implemented with perseverance and
firm determination. Regarding the task, he called on
the teachers to cooperate with local authorities,
departments, respective officials, social
organizations and the people as the plan can be
successfully implemented through constant and
continued efforts.

In conclusion, he urged the teachers to carry out
tasks through the most effective use of the
classrooms.

After the ceremony, Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party posed
for a documentary photo together with teachers, school
board of trustees and students.

Then, they attended the cornerstone-laying ceremony
for construction of the main building for Hpa-an
University held at the compound of Hpa-an Degree
College in Hpa-an. At the briefing hall, Higher
Education Department Director-General U Saw Lwin
reported on construction of the university and
academic matters; and Yuzana Construction Group
Chairman U Htay Myint, on models for construction of
the university and arrangements for ensuring a fine
facility in the period scheduled.

Lt-Gen Maung Bo fulfilled the requirements, saying
that the government is implementing the 30-year plan
(from 2001-2002 to 2030-2031) which covers basic and
higher education. The plan is divided into six sectors
- human resources development, application of
technologies, research, constant learning society,
education promotion and preservation of national
standard and value. According to the plan, the 12
objectives and 36 tasks are being realized, he said.
The State has laid down the Myanmar's education goal -
emergence of an education system that creates constant
learning society capable of facing the challenge of
the knowledge age.

Studying the higher education sector, one can notice a
great difference between conditions before 1988 and
those today. There were 32 universities and colleges
before 1988 and there is an increase in the number of
those up to 153. And there were 5,638 faculty members
and now there are 10,176 members. There is an increase
in the number of students from 134,325 before 1988 to
777,174 today, and teaching programmes from 59 to 149.
Besides, Yangon University and Mandalay University
have produced 57 PhD graduates.

Since 1998, the Ministry of Education has established
the centre for development of human resources at each
and every university or degree college with a view to
meeting the number of technicians and experts needed
for the nation. During the period from 1998 to 2003, a
total of 74,295 trainees have attended 39 courses
conducted by the centres. And e-Education system was
launched on 1 January 2001. Now, all universities and
colleges have got e-Education learning centre each.
The very small aperture terminal (VSAT) system has
been launched at every university and administrative
and academic tasks are being carried out under on-line
system. Furthermore, altogether 455 e-Education
learning centres have been opened at universities,
degree colleges and schools in all parts of the nation
including Putao, Kawthoung, Maungtaw and Tachilek. The
people regardless of age and sex are studying at the
centres.

In education sector of Kayin State, there have emerged
Hpa-an University, Government Technological College
(Hpa-an), Government Computer College (Hpa-an) and
Hpa-an Education College. Hpa-an Regional College was
established in 1976-77. It was upgraded to Hpa-an
College in 1981, to Hpa-an Degree College in 1999, and
to Hpa-an University in 2003.

In education sector, the government has been creating
opportunities on education and at the same time
implementing projects for the development of human
resources.

In conclusion, he called for active participation of
the faculty members, teachers and students in the
30-year plan and education promotion plans adopted by
the State.

Next, the cornerstone-laying ceremony was held. Lt-Gen
Maung Bo placed the casket in the middle of the
foundation. Commander Maj-Gen Thura Myint Aung,
Chairman Col Cho Tun Aung and officials put the
cornerstones and the stone plaque at the designated
places and sprinkled scented water on them. After the
ceremony, Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party inspected the site
chosen for construction of the main building and left
necessary instructions. They also attended the similar
ceremony for opening of the two-storey building of
Kyondoe BEHS.

Present on the occasion were Lt-Gen Maung Bo and
party, local authorities, departmental heads,
teachers, school board trustees, local people and
others.

Kawkareik Township Education Officer U Aye Min
reported on the purpose of construction of two-storey
building of Kyondoe BEHS. Next, the cornerstone-laying
ceremony was held. Lt-Gen Maung Bo, Commander Maj-Gen
Thura Myint Aung and Col Cho Tun Aung laid
cornerstones at the designated places.

Afterwards, the ceremony to donate cash towards the
funds for computers and printers of the multimedia
teaching centre was held. Officials reported on
progress of Kawkareik Township and Kyondoe regions,
and economic, social, education, health and regional
development matters. Secretary of the School Board of
Trustees U Aung Myaing reported on efforts being made
for opening the multimedia teaching centre at Kyondoe
BEHS.

Lt-Gen Maung Bo donated one set of computer and a
printer and K 500,000 and the commander, one set of
VCD to Kawkareik TEO U Aye Min.

Next, Col Cho Tun Aung presented a 21-inch colour TV
set, K 500,000, 2,400 dozens of exercise books, 20
dozens of pencils and 20 dozens of ball-point pens to
students of Kyondoe Station BEHS through Chairman of
SBT U Phyu Ohn. Next, local authorities presented K 2
million, Daw Khin Yi of Kyondoe, K 500,000 and U Win
Naing of Kyondoe, K 500,000 to Secretary U Aung Myaing
of SBT.

Afterwards, Lt-Gen Maung Bo explained implementation
of long-term plans in the education sector being
implemented for the development of human resource,
efforts being made for uplift of the higher education
sector or the basic one, organizing tasks being made
for opening of the multimedia teaching centres in
cooperation with the local people and wellwishers. He
urged those present to maintain the multimedia
teaching centres.

Lt-Gen Maung Bo and the commander planted Thitseint
saplings (Terminalia Belerica) together with the local
people on 40 acres of lands at 8-mile Village near
Kawkareik-Kyondoe Road. In the afternoon, they
attended the opening of the new office of Kawkareik
Township War Veterans Organization.

Chairman of Kawkareik District WVO Supervisory
Committee Lt-Col Ko Ko Gyi and Chairman of Township
WVO Organizaing Committee Capt Tun Yi (Retd) formally
opened the new office. Lt-Gen Maung Bo formally
unveiled the signboard of the office.

Lt-Gen Maung Bo went to the local battalion in
Kawkareik Township and inspected cultivation of
vegetable patches of respective companies of the
battalion.

At the town hall, Lt-Gen Maung Bo met with local
authorities, local people, townselders and officials
of the social organizations. Lt-Col Ko Ko Gyi reported
on administration, economic and social matters of the
township, accomplishments in 2003-2004 and future
tasks.

Speaking on the occasion, Lt-Gen Maung Bo said that
the infrastructures such as transportation, education,
health, economic and social sectors are being
undertaken for development of socio-economy of the
Union including the border areas. Likewise,
development of the regional economy in good conditions
are to be maintained, he noted. Arrangements are being
made for enabling the local national youths to pursue
higher education and technology. Hpa-an Degree College
has been upgraded to a university in addition to the
existing colleges in the region.

The Government is paying attention to the equitable
development of the regions in the entire nation
because the State has been gaining progress of peace.

The local people and departmental personnel are to
join hands with the State to ensure perpetuation of
peace and tranquillity in the State. The people are
also to maintain progress of the State and to
harmoniously participate in peaceful, tranquil and
developed task of the State realizing the Union
Spirit. The departments concerned are also to organize
the local people for creating of the economy and job
opportunities of the local people.

After the meeting, Lt-Gen Maung Bo cordially conversed
with those present. Next, they arrived at Kawkareik
Station Hall

---------

4. Ministry of Culture holds paper-reading session

Yangon, 11 July - A paper-reading session on the
history of Myanmar civilization and the civilized and
cultured Myanmar race was held under the sponsorship
of Ministry of Culture at the National Museum this
morning.

Minister for Culture Maj-Gen Kyi Aung delivered a
speech, followed by the presentation of papers by
academics in the field of history and archaeology,
researchers, literati and officials. The papers were
"Image of Tagaung , an ancient city of Myanmar";
Reserach on excavation of Kambozathadi Palace of King
Bayintnaung and archaeological evidence"; "Rural
culture"; "Myanmar value systems of culture"; "Myanmar
cultutal traditions and customs"; " the role of
teachers in cultured citizens"; " Study on Myanmar
Festivals"; "Myanmar traditional games and sports";
"Modes of dress of Myanmar men and women of different
periods"; "Birds in 550 life stories of Buddha";
"Glaze wares and kilns in Bagan"; "History of
libraries and the role of National Museum"; and "
Obliteration of culture".

The resource persons also replied to queries raised by
the participants.

Present were officials, faculties of the institutions
of higher learning under the ministry and others. The
paper-reading session continues on 12 and 14 July.

---------

5. Ministers, entrepreneurs seek means to develop
tourist industry

Yangon, 11 July - Entrepreneurs will have to strive
together with the ministries concerned to get
international community know the objective condition
of Myanmar, said Minister for Hotels and Tourism
Brig-Gen Thein Zaw at a meeting at Strand Hotel here
today.

At the meeting, Brig-Gen Thein Zaw, heads of the other
tourism-related ministries and entrepreneurs
collectively sought means to develop the nation's
tourist industry. Brig-Gen Thein Zaw also said his
ministry, other tourism-related ministries and
entrepreneurs are striving for development of the
tourist industry like a family business. However,
turning a blind eye to the objective conditions of
Myanmar, that is enjoying peace and stability, some
organizations inside the country are trying to prevent
foreign vacationers from visiting Myanmar. Some
foreign elements are also echoing their slanders and
trying to help them. Minister for Forestry U Aung
Phone, Minister for Transport Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe,
Minister for Immigration and Population Maj-Gen Sein
Htwa, Minister for Home Affairs Col Tin Hlaing,
Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National
Races and Development Affairs Col Thein Nyunt,
Minister for Health Dr Kyaw Myint, Deputy Minister for
Information Brig-Gen Aung Thein, other officials and
entrepreneurs also took part in the discussion.

---------

6. Matriculation exam results announced

Yangon, 12 July- The results of the matriculation
examination held in March 2003 were simultaneously
announced at respective examination centres of the
respective schools in States/Divisions and townships
at 6 am today.

In addition, the results from states and divisions
except Yangon Division are posted at Insein Basic
Education High School No 1, Yankin BEHS No 1, Kamayut
BEHS No 3, Lanmadaw BEHS No 1, Dagon BEHS No 2 and
Thingangyun BEHS No 1.

Exam results to be broadcast for remote areas

Yangon, 11 July - Out of the successful candidates in
the 2003 matriculation examination, those of states
and divisions which are difficult of access will be on
the air on 30.85 meter at 1.30 pm tomorrow on Myanma
Radio Programme. Listed are such examination centres
as Tanai, Machanbaw, Putao, Nagmon, Phakant and
Sumprabum townships in Kachin State; Papun,
Kya-in-seikkyi and Kamamaung in Kayin State;
Kanpetlet, Matupi, Mintat and Paletwa in Chin State;
Gwa, Kyeintali, An, Manaung and Zayatkonkhin in
Rakhine State; Momeik, Namhsan (north), Monghsat,
Mongkai, Kunlon, Mongton, Mongpyin, Maukmai,
Mongyawng, Kehsi Mansan, Kunhing, Hopan, Monghkat,
Mongpan, Mongphyat, Mabein, Monghsu, and Manton in
Shan State; Palaw, Bokpyin, and Pala in Taninthayi
Division; Pauk, Htilin, Saw, Laungshi, Kyaukhtu,
Sedoktara and Ngaphe in Magway Division; Nanyun in
Sagaing Division and Coco Islands in Yangon Division.

---------

7. 9,000 students recite Dhammaçakka Sutta at
Shwedagon Pagoda

Yangon, 11 July- Altogether 9,000 students recited
fifth Dhammaçakka Sutta recitation ceremony, organized
by No 3 Basic Education Department (Yangon City), in
conjunction with the gold plates donation ceremony for
all-round renovation of Shwedagon Pagoda at the
platform of the pagoda this morning, attended by
Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development
Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe.

Altogether 9,000 students offered 9,000 lights and
9,000 flowers to the pagoda.

Today's donations amounted to cash and 62 gold plates
worth K 28,180,364.

---------

8. Myanmar delegation leaves for Malaysia

Yangon, 11 July - A Myanmar delegation led by Brig-Gen
Abel, Minister at the State Peace and Development
Council Chairman's Office, left here for Indonesia by
air this afternoon to attend the Special Meeting of
ASEAN Economic Ministers, which will be held in
Jakarta, Indonesia, from 12 to 13 July.

They were seen off at Yangon International Airport by
Minister for Industry-2 Maj-Gen Saw Lwin, Minster for
Energy Brig-Gen Lun Thi and departmental officials.

Brig-Gen Abel was accompanied by Director-General U
Khin Maung Yi of the Directorate of Investment and
Companies Administration under the Ministry of
National Planning and Economic Development. The
Myanmar Consular to Malaysia will also attend the
meeting as member of Myanmar delegation

---------

9. Narcotic drugs seized in Mandalay

Yangon, 11 July - Acting on information tipped off by
a garbage collector in Mandalay, local intelligence
unit members seized 38,600 stimulant tablets, 0.11gm
of crushed stimulant pill, 2 heroin blocks weighing
0.7 kilo and 0.4 kilo of opium oil from a garbage bag.
Further investigation led to the search of the house
No 61/50 between 71st and 72nd Streets and 32nd and
33rd Streets in Chanmya Thazi Township in Mandalay.
Maung Win (a) Lishin San, owner of the drugs had fled
and 2,625 stimulant tablets and K 794,500 realized
from the sale of drugs were confiscated. Action is
being taken againsts him by the local police station

---------

10. Drug dealers sentenced

Yangon, 11 July - Police of Natthankwin Police
Station, Kyaukdaga Township, Bago Division on 25 May,
2002, acting on information searched suspicious motor
schooner at Chaungwa jetty and seized 4.898 kilos of
marijuana inside Polyethylene bag belonging to Saw Tha
Htoo, Phar Saw Htoo and Aung Win.

In connection with the case, action was taken against
Saw Thar Htoo, son of U Saw Phone Kyut of Thitchaseik
village, Phar Saw Htoo, son of U Phar Maw of Gyokon
village and Aung Win, son of U Set Tha Na of
Kyunchaung village in Kyaukgyi Township under Section
15/19(A)/21 of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic
Substances Law by Penwegon Police Station.
Bago District Court on 27 May handed down Saw Tha Htoo
and Phar Saw Htoo to four years imprisonment under the
Section of 15 and 15 years imprisonment under the
Section of 19 (A) respectively and Aung Win to four
years' imprisonment under the Section of 15.

--------------------
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