Appeal to Fill the Gap in Support for Karen Teachers’ Annual Subsidy (2025–2026 Academic Year)
Appeal to Fill the Gap in Support for Karen Teachers’ Annual Subsidy (2025–2026 Academic Year)
The Karen Education and Culture Department (KECD) and the Karen Teacher Working Group (KTWG) are writing to share an urgent appeal regarding the funding crisis affecting the annual subsidy for Karen State teachers for the 2025–2026 academic year.
Since February 2025, international political transitions have created a serious funding shortfall for many organizations supporting NGOs, INGOs, and local CSOs and CBOs working in holistic community development. This crisis directly impacts the Karen community, particularly our teachers, who are essential to the future of our children.
Last year, KECD and KTWG planned to provide 12,000 Thai Baht (approximately 350 USD) per teacher, but limited funding meant we could only provide 10,500 Baht. This year, we aim to support 10,880 Karen community teachers, yet we face an even larger funding gap. While we have secured 59% of the necessary funds, 41% remains urgently needed. Without this, the subsidy per teacher would have to be significantly reduced in order to cover all teachers.
This shortfall puts teachers and their families at risk during a period of economic and political instability, with rising costs and inflation increasing their burden. Your support will help ensure they can continue their invaluable work, focus on their classrooms, and stay motivated.
Subsidy support for Karen teachers is an investment in the well-being and empowerment of educators and the future of Karen children. Your generosity can make a lasting difference.
Thank you for your support.
KECD & KTWG
