Muslim Students Receive Equal Access to Education with Rakhine Under ULA/AA’s New School System

News

Global Arakan Network October 28,2025

In areas of Arakan State under the control of the United League of Arakan/Arakan Army (ULA/AA), a new education system free from racial and religious discrimination is being implemented. According to field observations by AB News, both Rakhine and Muslim students are now able to study together in the same schools.

After decades of restrictions and barriers to education, Rakhine and Muslim youths are now receiving equal opportunities under the ULA/AA administration, without discrimination based on ethnicity or religion, members of the Muslim community told AB News.

A Muslim student currently attending Grade 12 described his experience to AB News:

“We are truly happy to be able to study together equally with Rakhine students. The Rakhine teachers treat us, Muslim students, just the same as they do with Rakhine students—with fairness and respect. There’s no racial or religious discrimination at all. Everyone is treated equally. It’s really heartwarming to see mutual respect between both communities.”

A Muslim man said that Muslim students who had lost their right to education under the previous military commission’s rule due to ethnic and religious-based restrictions are now proud and delighted to have equal access to education alongside others under the Arakan People’s Revolutionary Government.

“During the time of the military commission, we Muslims didn’t have the freedom to study. Everything was restricted. We faced racial discrimination and were treated unfairly, sometimes even humiliated. Now, under the Arakan Army’s administration, we finally have the chance to learn alongside others as equals. It’s something we feel deeply proud and grateful for.”

In townships under ULA/AA control, relations between Rakhine and Muslim communities have visibly improved, with growing harmony, friendship, and mutual understanding compared to previous years.

Under the former military regime, many Muslims across Rakhine were denied freedom of movement and faced discrimination in economic activities, healthcare access, and education.

Today, in ULA/AA-administered areas, Muslims are once again able to move freely, whether alone or in groups, and gather openly in public spaces such as teashops, cafes, and local markets.

Moreover, Rakhine and Muslim communities now cooperate in various economic activities, including trade, commerce, and money transfer businesses. In townships such as Kyauktaw, Mrauk-U, and Minbya, Rakhine and Muslim students are seen studying together freely under the new education system.

However, in western parts of Rakhine—particularly Buthidaung, Rathedaung, and Maungdaw Townships—the situation remains difficult. Ongoing violent attacks, killings, abductions, extortion, and looting by armed extremist groups have created serious challenges to the peaceful coexistence and equal learning opportunities for Rakhine and Muslim students in those areas.

source@arakanbaynews