EIP

          In early 2003, Tharamu Say Naw, the Umpiem Camp Education Coordinator saw the need for an advanced English training school for young students. She approached World Education/Consortium Thailand with an idea for a program that would enable young students to gain proficiency in English Language written and spoken skills. Brooke Treadwell, a volunteer, and her teaching partner, Patrick Kearns, began what was to become the English Immersion Program (EIP).

         

          The school initially began with a focus on developing English language skills and through immersion; however, observation, assessment and continual feedback soon brought about changes in the curriculum and the focus of the program. English became a springboard through which skills, confidence, and forward thinking could be developed. Given the impact of resettlement, the community had a need for young people who could accomplish tangible tasks, could make decisions, take leadership roles, be good role models and effect positive change.

 

          In its third year, with full support from World Education/Consortium and Karen Refugee Committee Education Entity and funding through a USAID grant, EIP became open to all ethnic groups on the border. Topics such as inter-ethnic communication, conflict resolution, project management, translation and interpretation, teaching skills and community development were integrated into the daily fabric of life at EIP.       

         

          In Spring 2015, to ensure continued funding and long term goals of EIP’s success, the program was moved from Umpiemto Kaw Lah village, located within Karen State Myanmar. EIP is the first higher education school among seven refugee camps to return to Myanmar. There are 23 students: Karen (17), Burmese (3), Arakan (1), Kayan (2), Bwe (1). Meet the future leaders of Myanmar.dership roles, be good role models and effect positive change.