Myanmar's Underground Nursing School: A Beacon of Hope Amidst Conflict

A clandestine graduation ceremony recently took place for 21 nursing students in Myanmar, who have been training in an underground health system since the military coup in February 2021. This coup led to a pro-democracy uprising being crushed and ignited a civil war, resulting in significant humanitarian crises. The United Nations estimates that 18.6 million people in Myanmar require humanitarian assistance, with over 3.2 million internally displaced and more than 55,000 civilian buildings destroyed. The students, including Khun Sue Reh and Rosetta, have faced numerous challenges, including airstrikes on training hospitals, government surveillance, and internet blackouts.

The Guardian

As the situation deteriorated, healthcare access in Myanmar became severely disrupted, with hospitals and clinics damaged or destroyed and healthcare workers facing violence. April, a nurse educator, noted that the junta's crackdown on protests forced healthcare professionals to establish secret clinics to provide care to those injured during demonstrations. In response to the escalating violence, international collaborations emerged, with UK nurses assisting in creating educational resources for the students. This led to the development of the Phoenix Bachelor of Nursing Science qualification, which was delivered through pre-recorded lectures and practical sessions in a jungle setting.

The Guardian

The students endure harsh living conditions, lacking clean water and basic medical supplies. Marcus Wootton from the Royal College of Nursing highlighted the constant threat of drone and air attacks, which have forced the school to relocate multiple times. Khun recounted a harrowing experience during a clinical placement when an airstrike directly targeted the hospital where he was working, necessitating an evacuation with patients. The emotional toll of these experiences weighs heavily on the students, who express concerns for their families and communities.

The Guardian

Despite the challenges, the students remain determined to contribute to a better future for Myanmar. Khun emphasized the importance of hope and dreams, stating, “I hope people outside Myanmar understand that our lives here are not just about struggle.” The nursing program has maintained international standards, and Wootton described the students' achievements as "extraordinary." Currently, five cohorts are studying, with additional programs for diploma nurses seeking to upgrade their qualifications.

The Guardian

In a letter to the Royal College of Nursing, one student expressed the significance of the name "Phoenix," symbolizing resilience and the reconstruction of Myanmar's healthcare system. The students embody a commitment to compassion, democracy, and professionalism, proving that education and hope can endure even in the face of violence.

The Guardian

• “Safety is never guaranteed,” — Khun Sue Reh, Graduate

The Guardian

• “Then, later on, the junta cracked down on those protesters.” — April, Nurse Educator

The Guardian

• “We’ve had bombs land right next to the classroom.” — Marcus Wootton, Royal College of Nursing

The Guardian

• “ He adds: “I hope people outside Myanmar understand that our lives here are not just about struggle.” — Khun Sue Reh, Graduate

The Guardian

• “It symbolises rising from the ashes of the destruction the coup has caused.” — Student Letter to RCN

The Guardian

This underground nursing school represents a vital effort to sustain healthcare education and services in Myanmar, highlighting the resilience of its students amidst ongoing conflict.

The Guardian