Connecting Burma 2012
Burma is a place bearing a long history of political struggle which deprives its people of basic necessities and results in a significant economical and educational disadvantage. At present, the Burmese Diaspora in Burma & Thailand, where most refugees have stayed at, are in urgent need of resources.
In order to promote cultural exchange between Hong Kong and Burmese people, understand the problems and difficulties facing Burmese people, arouse public awareness of the plight of Burmese refugees and raise funds for schools and camps in Burma, a number of Starr Hall students have planned a summer volunteer programme and a series of pre-trip and post-trip activities.
Prior to the summer volunteer programme, a Burma Week consisting of an exhibition, a forum, documentary screenings and handicrafts sale was organized to introduce the programme and attract attention from more people.
The programme, being the main focus of the project, took place both inside Burma and along the Thai-Burma border. It provided opportunities for HKU students to gain first-hand knowledge of Burmese people’s lives and assist those who are in need.
Post-trip activities including publications, a photo exhibition and a sharing session were held to create a platform for the participants’ experience and feelings to be shared within our society.