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Han Ko Lin: Driven to develop Myanmar’s education sector

Posted: 12 January 2021

Disability inclusion, Education, Scholar experience,

Australia Awards scholar Han Ko Lin is driven to enhance access to education and provide strong leadership in Myanmar’s education sector.

Han Ko Lin’s determination, experience and existing qualifications in arts, community leadership and social studies prepared him to successfully apply for an Australia Awards Scholarship. He is studying a Master of Education (Leadership and Management) at Flinders University in Adelaide, South Australia.

“My ambition is to provide qualified education access to my community,” he says.

“When I get back to Myanmar, I would like to work in the education sector with children in conflict affected or remote areas.”

In addition, Han Ko Lin is committed to using his skills to develop human resource capabilities in Myanmar’s education sector.

Han Ko Lin was born with a condition that caused the muscles in his legs and hands to waste. Because of his disability, Han Ko Lin faced numerous barriers to accessing education beyond his final school exams. He persisted, however, and went on to successfully complete tertiary education, embark on his career and gain greater independence.

Before coming to Australia, Han Ko Lin was working as Assistant Director at community-based organisation SKY-Youth Resource Centre, which supports young people to develop skills and gain employment.

Through Australia Awards, Han Ko Lin has received support to ensure he can undertake his study in Australia on an equal basis with others. This has included the provision of assistive equipment, as well as financial and psychological support.

He urges other people with disability to apply for an Australia Awards Scholarship. “I, as a person with disability, would like to encourage other people like me to apply for a scholarship if they are passionate about making a positive change for Myanmar. Please believe in yourself and just do it, because you can do it.”

Read more about how Australia Awards promotes equality and participation for all groups in society.