Commemorative Ceremony: International Women’s Day celebration in Nay Pyi Taw

A commemorative ceremony of International Women’s Day took place at Myanmar International Convention Centre –II in Nay Pyi Taw on Friday under the theme  “Invest in women: Accelerate progress” with the presence of Daw Kyu Kyu Hla, wife of the State Administration Council’s Chairman and Prime Minister, the Honorary Patron of Myanmar Women’s Affairs Federation (MWAF).

In his video message, Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing emphasized the need to promote education, improve health access, and create economic opportunities for young women to enable them to enjoy the rights of gender equality.

He pointed out the crucial role of literacy in enhancing women’s lives, highlighting that the rate of women’s literacy in Myanmar had increased to 85% in 2023, up from 73% in 2000. Additionally, he stressed the importance of providing vocational education to women in rural areas who lack opportunities for formal education.

The Prime Minister called for the cooperation of all Non-Governmental Organizations, Social Organizations, and the entire population in enhancing women’s empowerment by joining hands with the government.

Then, Chairman of Myanmar National Committee on Women, Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Dr Soe Win clarified the measures for the development of women, promotion of women’s rights and prevention of violence against women in various forms. 

He also pledged that the Ministry will continue cooperation in gender equality, women’s development and prevention works with relevant departments and organizations in line with the policies and guidelines of the State.

After that, a video message from the United Nations Secretary General and a video clip on women’s development milestone were screened. Afterwards, Honorary Patron of MWAF, wife of the SAC Chairman, Daw Kyu Kyu Hla presented honorary medal, certificate and cash to first prize winner at the Article/Essay competition commemorating the International Women’s Day 2024.

Next, Honarary Patron of MWAF Daw Khin Thet Htay, SAC’s Secretary’s wife and Union Minister Dr Soe Win awarded the second, third and consolation prize winners. Then, artists from Fine Arts Department under the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Culture performed the song, along with the ethnic traditional dances. Afterwards, wife of Prime Minister and attendees viewed around the products exhibition displayed by women schools and associations.