Social work and fanicial

I'm one of the student studying in bachelor of social work. I have been working many area in social work. I face one big crisis in money . My attention is good affect to social and community. I am not business man nor rich . I got help from my best friend. My personal life is ok, if i didn't cooperative social work. Big problem when i start to work social work, I need money . Who pays???? Nobody interesting. In the world most of the people interesting how to search money easily and how to stay life comfortable. they just think about their self, it mean egocenteric mind. I don't want to say that is shit. I want to say myself really bullshit. I had finish social work movement in kolkotta , west bengal . We didn't got any money from government and ngo. we try manage to collect within friend and community, that is not enough. but we take risk . so we face so many problem. i would like to conclude if we have no strong fanicial , any kind of social activity is not arrive target. but keep going on...
we come the world for play not for sit....
Min Zaw

WildFlower Land Awareness Working Group

Problem StatementThe dark veil of secrecy that shrouds Burma must be lifted before the back of democracy is broken completely.(11) In 1962, when General Ne Win's military took control of the country, the new government instituted several measures that effectively cut Burma off from the outside world. With SPDC's continued authoritarian government, this isolation has largely remained. Burma is still rarely mentioned in the international media, and is not a recognizable player in other international events such as business, sports, or art. The Burmese people and their elected, democratic leader, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi(12), have repeatedly asked for awareness, assistance and solidarity from the international community. Burmese people inside Burma and those living in exile - both in Thailand and abroad - are eager to share their stories of suffering at the hands of the military junta. However, due to the climate of fear in the Burmese society, and other problems such as language, the lack of freedom of movement, and ignorance due to a dreadful education system, the Burmese community has not been given ample opportunity to share their situation with the outside world. Another concern is the growing tourist industry in Burma. Due to economic sanctions and poor internal economic management, the military regime is in want of dollars, and has made a large effort to attract tourists, usually using forced labor to build tourist infrastructure. In addition, the military government is careful to present Burma in a way that masks the reality of life inside 'Myanmar'; such tactics include restricting the areas open to tourists, intimidating any visitor thought to have political aims, and oppressing any Burmese citizen who dares to speak the truth of their country. The primary concern is that an increased number of people will visit, unaware of the harsh reality of life in Burma and the effect their tourist visit has on daily Burmese life. Past ProjectsIn late September 1999, an awareness pamphlet was created with the cooperation of several Wildflower Land working members, HRDU (Human Rights Documentation Unit) and ABFSU-FAC (All Burma Federation of Student Unions - Foreign Affairs' Committee). This pamphlet gives an overview of life in Burma, including a brief chronology of important events, the current human rights situation, and a few suggestions on how to support the cause. The pamphlet was printed in English, German, and French; so far, it has been widely distributed and circulated in Thailand, India, Laos, Nepal, the United States, Germany, and Sweden. Several letter writing/petition campaigns have also been initiated with the aim of addressing important issues concerning Burmese people, as well as highlighting their plight to the international communities and relevant officials. The latest project concerned the status and safety of the Burmese exiles living in Thailand; various signatures from international persons were collected on the appeal letter and the associated e-mail campaign has gained momentum in raising awareness about this situation. Proposed Projects The Awareness Working Group has made contact with and plans to network with other groups - local and international - interested in the Burmese cause, for facilitation of further campaigns; such groups as the Free Burma Coalition from America, and Canadian Friends of Burma. Located in the border area, The Awareness Working Group has access to current, vital information from a network of sources that can be shared with others. Currently, the Awareness Working Group is developing a tourism concerns campaign. Posters and further pamphlets will be produced, then widely distributed. Also, there are plans to create and develop a website dedicated to promoting international awareness of Burma, its people, and their struggle. This form of media will be instrumental in giving Burmese citizens an international voice. Future ProjectsIn addition to further awareness campaigns through letter writing and the distribution of pamphlets, posters, postcards and other media, the Awareness Working Group aspires to operate as a gate-keeping organization on the Thai-Burma border. In this way, information can be freely exchanged between many groups. The Awareness Working Group also intends to network with local groups in writing, petitioning, and facilitating for newspapers, journalists and photographers; as well as aiding independent documentaries, and seeking other methods to encourage media attention on the Burmese plight. In order to more successfully carry out these tasks, the group plans to aid and work in coordination with underground student and political groups operating inside Burma. In cooperation, the group hopes to accurately document the present situation by obtaining relevant photos and information, especially regarding the cultural climate of the country. Aims: To promote international awareness of the current human rights and cultural situation of Burma, thereby encouraging solidarity between Burmese people and the world.
To provide the Burmese people an international voice though various media forms, the internet/website and improved cooperation with international bodies.
To raise international awareness of Burma and its people through letter, e-mail, and other campaigns; media devices including pamphlets, posters, and postcards; and international networking to encourage media attention on Burma.
To strengthen cooperation between local Burmese groups struggling for democracy and international persons and bodies desiring to help.

WildFlower Land Art Collection Group

Problem StatementWhen the military regime took Burma by force and created an environment of fear, the Burmese people were subsequently starved, beaten, tortured, raped, and stripped of all basic human liberty; left to compete with force for basic human dignity. At the present time, Burma is still forcibly oppressed, and since the population wearily exists, and their prosperity, livelihood, and overall well-being are in constant danger, the climate has reached such a desperate state. Among the various groups working in support for the Burmese cause, there are grave concerns regarding the threat to Burmese culture amidst such an incredible struggle for liberation. This struggle is not solely political, as the Burmese are also attempting to free themselves from the chains of personal and community oppression. In fact, most art, publications, and music projects are terminated before they even reach the public, which forces the Burmese people to search elsewhere for work reflecting the true feelings of their situation. With no forum for free expression, they have little chance to communicate the difficulties of this struggle, thus finding a peaceful way to freedom. Past ProjectsIn November 1999, The Wildflower Land Art Collection Group was established by Burmese artists and students, in close coordination with members of the international community, in order to help validate the Burmese people and inspire the Burmese culture. Thus, The Wildflower Land Art Collection Journal was created, and began to collect and publish Burmese poetry, creative writing, and art in a monthly magazine. The group has also petitioned international artists to submit their work in order to build a global community of support and free expression. The Wildflower Land began with an initial target market of approximately 500 readers in Thailand, Burma and abroad. The magazine includes work in both Burmese and English, and is distributed free to Burmese workers, refugees, and exiles in the Thai-Burma border area; as well as throughout Thailand. The magazines are also sent to international subscribers at a minimal cost. Each month, the unique creative process begins, with members of the Art Collection Group gathering, reviewing all submissions, and beginning the process of translating and editing for the next edition. This includes round-table discussions regarding art, design layout, distribution, and future plans; all with the hopes at creating an environment of free exchange of ideas, and offering an open forum for expression. In addition to the journal, in January 2000, the Art Collection Group began organizing a library (book lending service) for all Burmese in the Mae Sot area. Initially, 85 books were delivered from inside Burma, adding to the already small personal collection of several working members, and presently the collection stands at over 100 books. These books are mostly in Burmese, covering such topics as Burmese and international literature, poetry, music, philosophy, religion, and anthologies. Also, there are several English language instruction books for those interested in personal study; there are also various newspapers, magazines, journals, dictionaries, and an atlas. Proposed Projects The Art Collection Group plans to continue and expand The Wildflower Land Art Collection Journal, maintaining its monthly schedule of production but increasing in size, content, and distribution. Due to the overwhelming response - both in the Thai-Burma border area and internationally - there have been many submissions for future editions. In fact, several international magazines have already expressed interest at collaborating on future projects, and the Art Collection Group hopes to build on these relationships, mainly through the internet and its proposed website(10). Therefore, the group is anxious to continue the momentum from its first two efforts, and looks at creation of an honorable and dynamic creative expression journal. Besides the present distribution plan, the group also intends to distribute copies inside Burma, where space for dynamic ideas and inspirational creativity are so lacking. With this in mind, the Art Collection Group will coordinate with persons inside Burma who can securely transport and deliver copies of The Wildflower Land around the country; especially, to the underground libraries and bookshops supporting the cause for freedom of expression. Another planned project, also involved with persons from inside Burma, is a continued effort at expanding the current library. Every month, the group hopes to buy approximately 100 books to add to its collection, thereby providing a more diverse selection for its users. Future ProjectsIn addition to continuing The Wildflower Land and expansion of the library, the Art Collection Group also intends to evaluate the idea of a Burmese community resource center, based in Mae Sot. This would be open to all Burmese in Thailand, and would provide a safe, decent space for which Burmese could meet, gather, share, learn and celebrate. Due to the hostile conditions inside Burma, and the difficult living arrangements in exile in Thailand, this would fill a large need. In an attempt at culturally revitalizing and encouraging the Burmese people of all ethnic and religious backgrounds, the community resource center would also serve as a place for further education and self-study. Some of the ideas for the community center include an available space for open discussion groups, an expanded library, music lessons and rehearsals, art lessons and groups, dance lessons and performances, computer training, and the hosting and facilitation of culturally diverse Burmese ceremonies. The Art Collection Group will begin to survey the Mae Sot area for active interest, as well as organizing meetings with the responsible authorities. Aims: To provide cultural support to the exiled Burmese population, as well as those within Burma, with projects aimed at encouraging free expression and participation in the various activities of the uniquely diverse Burmese people.
Utilize the creative process of The Wildflower Land to encourage unity amongst Burmese in Thailand - and in cooperation with the international community.
Distribute The Wildflower Land to all interested persons, and to make it accessible for all people.
Use the creative forum of The Wildflower Land, and its proposed website, as a means for international solidarity.
Provide a substantial collection of Burmese books to those in the Mae Sot area.
Aid in the publication of books written by Burmese people containing stories from Burmese people, as well as Burmese culture, art, and other books to be distributed to an international audience.
Promote active involvement in traditional culture and expression, and to assist in creating opportunities for safe and reliable cultural activities.
Facilitate those interested in self-study and personal development.

WildFlower Land Education Working Group

Problem StatementPresently, the most demanding problems for the children in Thailand are associated with a lack of education. Since nearly all of the Burmese migrant workers are 'illegal,' their children are unable to attend Thai schools; and even if they were afforded access to these schools, most would be unable to secure the necessary costs for tuition and transport. They therefore must endure the extremely demanding environment of their exiled villages, usually being sent to work at incredibly young ages. When at home, many children live amongst unhygienic living conditions which invariably lead to disease and accidents, mainly due to the lack of education and knowledge of basic personal safety, and family planning. As of January 2000, there are only two schools in the entire area surrounding Mae Sot(8), where most agricultural workers live and work. In Mae Sot, there is one school in operation, for the estimated 15,000 children. The number of potential students has reached such an alarming level that there is now an immediate, dire need for support of more schools in this area. The consequences of hundreds, possibly thousands of Burmese children in Thailand alone unable to have access to a fundamental education, is frightening. Past ProjectsSince October 1999 - when the Wildflower Land Art Collection Group was conceived - several working members have taken iniative and began teaching independently in Mae Sot. While the international volunteers focus on teaching English and sharing cross-cultural ideas, the Burmese working members have been holding basic computer training courses, music lessons, and teachings on human rights and democracy. Together, they have provided a forum for open communication on such topics as art, literature, dance, philosophy, religion, and globalization. Moreover, without any external support, many classes have grown and interest has mounted. Proposed ProjectThe Education Working Group proposes one primary school initially, to provide decent education for the 70 potential students in the Djai Di Ko village, a village in the Tak Province, some 25 km from Mae Sot. The children range from the ages of 3 to 12. This school will be overseen by Ma Tin Tin Myane, the village head-woman, in coordination with Min Zaw, a Burmese student and coordinator of the Wildflower Land Support Group. They will employ several Burmese women from the village as teachers - all whom have graduated Burmese Universities with their education degrees. In addition, a foreign, English-speaking volunteer will be petitioned, in order to provide basic training in the English language. This school will be built and established in Djai Di Ko with a projected starting date of 1 May 2000. At this time, students will be enrolled, divided into classes, and provided education materials such as books, notebooks, pens, pencils and chalkboards. The school will be equipped with a blackboard, and the necessary teachers' provisions such as textbooks, gradebooks, and chalk. The school also intends to feed the students a lunchtime meal. Future ProjectsBeginning with the one school in Djai Di Ko, the Education Working Group will work to establish a base support for a more extensive education network in the Mae Sot area. There have been numerous, repeated requests for schools for Burmese children in Mae Sot, as well in surrounding villages, and therefore, the group will actively search out safe and reliable places for new schools, as well as gathering financial and teaching assistance. In this process, the group will concentrate on coordination efforts with other Burmese organizations and international NGO's in providing the best services available for the education of Burmese youth.(9) Also, the Education Working Group hopes to launch a modest international donation drive, where people can send learning materials, art supplies, pens and the like to the Wildflower Land office, and upon collection, all materials will be sent inside Burma for internally displaced persons and other children in need. This will be an ongoing effort, as there are countless children with no access to basic learning materials both inside Burma and in the Thai-Burma border area. Aims: To provide the children of Burmese migrant workers living in the Mae Sot area (Tak Province) with access to a decent education, as well as supporting Burmese children inside Burma with basic learning materials.
Provide classes in Burmese language, English language, and Thai language
Begin a careful review of Burmese history, with emphasis on the diverse ethnic makeup of the Burmese people (e.g. their culture, languages, religions, traditions)
Offer courses in Mathematics
Encourage athletic participation and art training
Instruction on personal safety precautions as well as introduce students to basic family planning
To promote youth involvement in local culture and traditions, and to assist in the implementation of community awareness programs
To facilitate students wishing to continue their studies after completion of their primary education
To distribute basic learning materials to Burmese youth living inside Burma.

Problem statement

With the deterioration of life in Burma under SPDC there is an alarming rise in the forced evacuation of many Burmese. They have been forced to leave their homeland and have fled to neighboring countries such as Thailand, India, Bangladesh, and China, as well as many student and political activists securing asylum status in other countries such as the United States, Australia and Europe. Hundreds of thousands of these Burmese have settled into a rapidly expanding population along the Thai-Burma border, while in the Mae Sot area alone, there are well over 40,000 Burmese workers, as well as numerous student and political activist groups. In early 1999, the Thai Ministry of the Interior admitted that roughly 1 to 1.2 million Burmese migrants were living in Thailand - although official estimates are lower. Many more families, including elderly and children, have been crossing into Thailand than in the past. In addition, unlike past trends, many of these migrant workers are not from areas of ethnic insurgency - such as the Karen and Shan areas(6) - but urban and rural Burmese forced to flee Burma due to such depraved living standards and limited opportunities. They come to Thailand not only for their economic and cultural well-being, but also in fear of their own security. These populations have largely fled from Burma since 1995; and significantly, since 1997. Because nearly all Burmese exiles are officially 'illegal', their status is in a constant state of insecurity, and they therefore must endure very cruel living standards which include abuse, low wages, long hours, poor food, fear of arrest and deportation, and difficult access to health care, social services and education. Due to this pressure - coming from all sides - it is very difficult to focus on the importance of education and individual expression, encouraging confidence in themselves and their future. Many lives in the border area are therefore without hope.(7) Adding to this desperation is the lack of access to proper education for Burmese youth in Thailand; forced to forgo schooling, children are particularly susceptible to abuse. The neglect of Burmese youth especially causes anxiety amongst the exiled population, yet with each day, as more and more migrant workers anxiously seek job opportunities, the situation for these workers worsens, and the neglect of their children rises. The effect is that most must go without any education, and therefore the vicious cycle of desperation continues, as well as adding to the likelihood of further deterioration of Burmese culture and its people. In addition, there is no opportunity for the Burmese population in general to express their ideas, nothing to promote their culture, and therefore, coupled with the extreme pressures of their lives, they are forced to abandon many aspects of their unique heritages. Specifically in the Mae Sot area, there are very limited cultural resources for Burmese people including access to literature, art, music, dance, and a space to gather and share ideas, expression and community. Inside Burma, where there is an increasing lack of access to ideas and resources, people are yearning to receive education and a forum for expression that has been absent for so many years. Moreover, there is also a sore lack of communication amongst the Burmese community and access to communication among the international community. This leaves the Burmese people - involved in such a desperate struggle for freedom - alone.

wildflower land Background

I can indicate no royal road for bringing about a social revolution except that we should represent it in every detail of our lives.Gandhi

Background Since the 1962 Military Coup in Burma, beginning with General Ne Win and deteriorating in the present day under SPDC(1), the educational opportunities and free expression that promote cultural preservation have been severely restricted. Due to the military takeover and subsequent suppression of all people in Burma, as well as enforced constraints on freedom of expression in all aspects of Burmese life, today, Burma's rich cultural infrastructure exists under the constant threat of extinction. Burma formerly had one of the highest education standards in South-East Asia, generating many renowned authors, poets, and artists. Yet like all social services in Burma, the education system has been neglected and tainted by strict regulations passed by the military regime. SPDC deliberately uses Burmese schools to impose discipline and control over the general population, careful in keeping ethnic children illiterate in their own languages and all children ignorant of their own literature and cultural past. Among other barriers to free education, all teachers are required to attend military-run training courses, and both teachers and students - as well as the child's parents - are held responsible for any activities regarded to be objectionable by the state. Due to the economic hardship imposed by the military regime since 1988 specifically, costs of even primary education make it nearly impossible for children to get a basic education. In fact, only 25% of all Burmese children complete their first five years of school.(2) At this point, still in the prime of their childhood, they must go to work, abandoning all hope for a brighter future. On the high school and university levels, schools are even more directly restrained by the military regime. Since the 1988 nation-wide uprisings(3) - lead by high school and university students - SPDC has feared the possibility of further demonstrations against their rule, and therefore have periodically closed schools for years at a time, dismissed many qualified professors, ordered remaining teachers to strictly control their students, and prohibitively increased the cost of tuition. In fact, since the 1962 Military Coup, students have been systematically repressed, all student unions have been banned, and many active students and noted artists have been imprisoned - some still languishing in Burmese prisons to this day. Closely connected to the state of oppression of Burmese education is the deterioration of the Burmese culture and traditions(4). The unique heritages in the culturally diverse 'Golden Land' have gradually decayed under the continued suppression of the people - specifically, the passing of prohibitive freedom laws, the censorship of all media and art, the forcing of a 'Burmese' nationality upon ethnic minorities, and the constant state of warfare within Burma(5); as well as other intangible influences living under military tyranny. Beginning in 1962, the 'Printers and Publishers Registration Law' required all printers, publishers, periodicals, magazines, and journals, as well as song lyrics, movie scripts and other intellectual property to be registered with the government for identification purposes. Included in this regulation is censorship on "(f) any incorrect idea and opinions which do not accord with the times; (g) any descriptions which, though factually correct, are unsuitable because of the time or cirumstances of their writing; [and] (b) anything detrimental to the ideology of the state". Under this act, the Press Scrutiny Board (PSB) was established to enforce these restrictive measures, invested with the power to prohibit any and all publication submitted to it. Introduced in 1989, an ammendment was added enhancing the penalties imposed on those violating this law. In addition to this edict, there are numerous other laws aimed at silencing free expression, with thousands held in prisons under the statutes proclaimed therein. Due to the severity of these laws, individual expression is extremely dangerous as well as the collection and distribution of forbidden information, periodicals, journals and music. All access to such materials is closely monitored, and much of the forum for creative output has therefore been forced 'underground'. There, everything is clouded in secrecy, fear, distrust, and constant harassment by suspecting military authorities. Beginning with a child's first introduction to Burmese culture, and continuing throughout his/her adult life inside Burma, there is a fierce and constant manipulation of all information flow, regardless if it is via proper channels such as primary schools, universities and daily newspapers, or via underground magazines, poetry books and music albums. This constant threat to free expression perpetuates a cycle of ignorance - an easy breeding ground for blind obedience to the military regime and guaranteed destruction of the unique cultures of Burma.