EBRR Meets APHR, Requests Scholarships for Rohingya Students in ASEAN Countries

Arakan Now | 11 September 2025

On 2 September 2025, the Examination Board of Rohingya Refugees (EBRR) met with ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR) in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. According to EBRR, the meeting focused on the challenges facing Rohingya students and the urgent need for educational opportunities.

Speaking to Arakan Now, Khin Maung, a member of the EBRR management committee, said:

"APHR specially met with the EBRR committee, and we presented the purpose of creating this exam board. We formed it with 74 schools in the refugee camps to provide quality education, conduct fair exams, and help students gain the knowledge they need to pursue higher studies. Those who pass the exams should have the chance to continue their education."

He added that the Board requested ASEAN governments to provide scholarships for Rohingya students and to recognize EBRR's accreditation. "They accepted our request and said they would try to help with accreditation. They also gave examples from the Philippines, whose representative was present, and promised to advocate in ASEAN countries for scholarships for Rohingya refugee students, similar to the Philippine model," he explained.

Khin Maung emphasized that the appeal was not just about education, but also about belonging. "We mainly focused on ASEAN scholarships because if our Rohingya youths study in ASEAN, they will understand the culture and values of this region. Living in ASEAN feels closer to living in Myanmar. One day, they can return and contribute to resolving our crisis. That is why we strongly support this path."

Another participant, Rahaman, echoed the call: "I was there too, and I requested ASEAN parliamentarians to provide scholarships for outstanding Rohingya students who dream of pursuing higher education in ASEAN countries."

For many in the refugee camps, education remains the only light of hope—a way for Rohingya youth to rebuild dignity, find opportunity, and prepare for a future beyond displacement.