nlmtest

Headlines

The 55th Anniversary Independence Day message of Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Senior General Than Shwe

Foreign Heads of State/Government send felicitations to Senior General Than Shwe

Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt attends prize-presentation ceremony of School Family Day, presents prizes to outstanding students

Religion

Secretary-1 attends Shwehtidaw hoisting ceremony of Khaungphu Inkura Pagoda

Secretary- 1 attend merit-sharing ceremony of Khanda Ordination hall in Padagyi Model Village, foundation stone laying ceremony of e-Library in Kyauktai1 Township

Region

Secretary-1 attends opening of 55th Anniversary Independence Day Exhibition

Secretary-1 inspects regional development in Myitkyina, Bhamo

State Peace and Development Council issued Notifications on conferring titles and medals commendation

State Peace and Development Council's Notification No 112003

Rural roads opened

Independence Day Exhibition crowded with visitors

Law Department to hold respect paying ceremony

News from the districts

Education

Secretary-1 views parade of outstanding students in School Family Day 2002-2003

School Family Day observed in basic education schools

News

Headlines

The 55th Anniversary Independence Day message of Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Senior General Than Shwe

Yangon, 4 Jan - The following is the message sent by State Peace and Development Council Chairman Defence Services Commander-in-Chief Senior General Than Shwe on the occasion of the 55th Anniversary of the Independence Day.

On this auspicious 55th Anniversary of the Independence Day of the Union of Myanmar, I greet all the national people of the State with love and respect. This year, the independence and sovereignty of the Union of Myanmar, restored after sacrificing many lives, blood and sweat of the national people has ushered in the 55th anniversary.

The anti-colonialist struggles and the national independence struggles the people had daringly launched in unity at the risk of their lives and with courage and firm Union Spirit and patriotism have always been prominent. The ever shining victories of the heroes of Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Bamar, Mon, Rakhine, Shan and other national races of the Union have already been recorded in the Myanmar history. So also in our time, the Tatmadaw members, who are the good sons of the national people, and all the people of the Union including service personnel have safeguarded the independence at the risk of their lives. They should be honoured and documented for their oneness, discharge of duties based on the strength of unity and dutifulness. The Union of Myanmar is a nation that has existed as an independent and sovereign one under her own monarch and culture and sovereignty for a long period countable by years in the thousand. As Myanmar is an independent and sovereign nation, the State Peace and Development Council is striving for the Union of Myanmar to be a modern and developed nation on self-reliance to be able to stand shoulder to shoulder with the world nations, using the national strength as the driving force to reach the goal. Hence, the working guidelines have been laid down in every sector to practise thrifty methods, minimize waste and boost production for the development and modernization of the nation.

Smooth and secure transport is the core factor of the national development and modernization drive. Likewise, the increased production in the agriculture sector, the main economy of the State, plays an eminent role.

The Government had implemented the first four-year short-term plan and the second five-year short-term plan for national economic development. It may be found that efforts have been made to exceed the targets of the respective plans.

Now, the nation is implementing the third five-year short-term plan. At a time when continuous endeavours are being made to develop and modernize all the sectors of Myanmar which is a developing country, frugality is essential. Thus, every government department has been practising thrifty measures to save fuel and electricity. Here, I would like to urge the people to efficiently use fuel and electricity with love for the State, to see that there is all-round development of the nation which will be able to stand shoulder to shoulder with other nations of the world.

Myanmar has designated rice, beans and pulses, sugarcane and cotton as the four main crops of the nation. Because of the Government's endeavours to systematically promote the agriculture sector, Myanmar today is among the top ten nations in terms of rice cultivation and production. In addition, Myanmar has become a leading beans and pulses producer and exporter in Southeast Asia. All are urged to strive for greater yield of cotton and sugarcane.

We are now trying to realize the objectives food production to exceed the local consumption; to export the surplus rice of the nation as a means to help fulfil the regional and global food needs; to ensure edible oil sufficiency; and to boost beans and pulses production for export, and increase the industrial crops output. In addition, the Government has encouraged extended cultivation of coffee, tea, pepper and rubber that can earn foreign exchange.

The growing sector of agriculture is now contributing up to 48 per cent to the GDP, and 18.3 per cent to the exports.

As extended land use is under way at present, total sown acreage of the nation has reached 25 million acres out of the 45 million acres of cultivable land in the whole country. Further efforts are to be made for increased commodity production. The Union of Myanmar has adopted the independent and active foreign policy. It has been strictly adhering to the five principles of Peaceful Co-Existence laid down at the Bandaung Conference in 1955. Till now, the nation is practising the five principles which were laid down unanimously.

In accord with the principles, the Union of Myanmar has been always trying to live in amity with all other countries around the world. Especially, the nation is extending relations with her neighbours in line with the Myanmar saying which goes "Enhance amity, diminish enmity". In addition, Union Spirit has been nurtured to safeguard the Union against disintegration. Union Spirit is based on patriotism. Patriotism means the strong spirit to safeguard the race, respect and cherish own traditions and culture, protect the national interests, and never tolerate insults on the national character and integrity. The new generations have the duty to preserve the patriotism.

With the firm determination of ensuring the emergence of a peaceful, modern and developed nation, that is the national goal, we have laid down the following four objectives of the 55th Anniversary Independence Day:
(a) All the national people to collectively safeguard the national independence and ensure perpetuation of sovereignty;
(b) All the national people to collectively strive for the building of a new, modern and developed nation;
(c) All the national people to be united to ensure non-disintegration of the Union and non-disintegration of national solidarity; (d) All the national people to strive for emergence of an enduring State Constitution.

And on this auspicious Independence Day, I, with love and respect, would like to urge the entire people of the Union to realize the four objectives with Union Spirit, the national spirit, the fraternal spirit, the force of oneness and the dignity and while exerting all-out efforts.

Foreign Heads of State/Government send felicitations to Senior General Than Shwe

Yangon, 4 Jan - The following are messages of felicitations from foreign Heads of State and Government sent to Senior General Than Shwe, Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council and Prime Minister of the Union of Myanmar, on the occasion of the 55th Anniversary Independence Day of the Union of Myanmar.

From Mr Jiang Zemin, President of the People's Republic of China:

On the occasion of the 55th Anniversary of the Independence of the Union of Myanmar, I would like to extend to Your Excellency the warmest congratulations and best wishes.

China and Myanmar are countries linked by common mountains and rivers and the two peoples enjoy profound pauk-phaw friendship. I am pleased to see the friendly cooperative relationship fostered by the leaders of elder generations of our two countries being in continuous consolidation and enhancement in the new century. I firmly believe that the traditional Sino-Myanmar friendship and existing mutual-beneficial cooperation based on the five principles of peaceful co-existence will further develop through our joint efforts.

Your Excellency is going to have a state visit to China. I am looking forward to meeting with Your Excellency during the visit and hope that the visit be a full success.

May the Union of Myanmar enjoy prosperity and her people well-being.

From Mr Zhu Rongji, Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China:

On the occasion of the 55th Anniversary of the Independence of the Union of Myanmar, I would like to extend, on behalf of the Government of the People's Repulic of China and in my own name, our warmest congratulations and best wishes to Your Excellency through you, to the Government and the people of the Union of Myanmar.

During the past year, the Government of Myanmar has been committed to maintaining political stability, developing the economy, improving people's living standard and actively broadening its external relations and made significant achievements in both internal and external work. With these we note with great pleasure.

Meanwhile, the Sino-Myanmar friendly relations were further developed during the past year. Exchanges and cooperation in all fields were continuously expending and brought concrete benefits to the people of our two countries. The Chinese side cherishes the Sino-Myanmar pauk-phaw friendship and is willing to join hands with the Myanmar side in promoting the traditional Sino-Myanmar friendly relations of good-neighborliness.

May the Union of Myanmar enjoy prosperity and her people well-being.

From A P J Abdul Kalam, President of the Republic of India:

On the auspicious occasion of the Independence Day of the Union of Myanmar, it gives me great pleasure to extend, on my behalf and on behalf of the people of the Republic of India, sincere felicitations and best wishes for the continued peace, progress and prosperity of the people of Myanmar. I Look forward to further strengthening and expansion of the traditional ties of friendship India-Myanmar. Please accept, Excellency, my best wishes for your health and well-being and the assurances of my highest consideration.

Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt attends prize-presentation ceremony of School Family Day, presents prizes to outstanding students

Yangon, 3 Jan - The prize-presentation ceremony of the School Family Day for 2002-2003 academic year took place at the Diamond Jubilee Hall on Pyay Road this afternoon.

Chairman of Myanmar Education Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt addressed the ceremony and presented prizes to outstanding students.

Ninth graders Ma Thu Thu Aung, Ma Ei Phyu Aung, Ma Yi Yi Aung and Ma Su Hnin Shwe of Latha Township No 2 Basic Education High School acted as masters of ceremonies.

The ceremony was opened by playing the National Anthem, and students sang songs in commemoration of the School Family Day. Later, Chairman of Myanmar Education Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt delivered an address.

The Secretary-1 said nowadays, changes and development in science and technology internationally are propelling every country to make systematic promotion in the education sector. We are in the era in which countries are striving competitively in the implementation of education promotion programmes that will protect and promote their national benefits from the present time to the future.

Moreover, developing countries are now facing the condition of being penetrated and influenced in culture and ideology by some big countries, using their financial and technological superiority. In such a situation, only when they develop the national resources and expertise in modern science and technology and awareness of national identity can developing countries like the Union of Myanmar shape their national resources and the future of the nation. Thus, every citizen is urged to give recognition to the fact that education promotion programmes for the development of the human resources of the new generation, are the preparation of the national duties to be able to construct the future of the entire nation on the right track leading towards the prosperity of the nation.

Besides, every citizen is encouraged to continue to make endeavours in this effort. It is a fact that only if the entire nation makes effort to produce youths who are more outstanding from one generation to another, will the nation and its people be prosperous. In Myanmar, the national education plans have been implemented successfully step by step because of the concerted efforts of parents, teachers, students, youths, members of the school board of trustees, wellwishers and community, under the proper guidance of the State.

Therefore, the success of the education promotion programmes including the display of all-round development of the students can be seen vividly in the School Family Day celebrations held annually up to this year. The State is making tremendous efforts to implement the national education system that can produce students who are in harmony with the modern and developed nations being constructed in line with the national objectives, who possess high quality education and are noble citizens, and who will endeavour for the development and improvement of the nation and its people.

The significance of this national education system is the transition from teacher centered approach to a child-centered one. The present education system nurtures students to achieve all-round developed and be talented in their specific areas, based on their innate ability and interest. In the light of this objective, revision of the basic education curriculum, the reform of the assessment and changes in teaching methods were conducted systematically and successfully. If we look back at these endeavours, the revised curriculum encourages the all-round development, linkage between education and society and promotion of moral and spiritual values. The curriculum has been reformed and upgraded by linking the basic education level with the higher education level. Regarding the assessment system, it has been successfully changed from one focusing on rote learning to the one that encourages initiative, creative, thinking ability and is of the society.

Especially in the learning process, IT based modern teaching learning system is being exploited for the training of students so as to be on par with the international standard of education and to foster a lifelong learning attitude. With regard to Education Promotion Programmes, the role of collaboration and contribution of parents and communities, school boards of trustees and well-wishers has been enhanced, and the fruitful inter-relationship of society and the education sector has also been achieved. Moreover, nowadays due to access to continuing education system without limitation to time, age, education level and a strong foundation in modern electric education, multimedia classrooms, media 3 platform, media 2 platform have been installed in over 1300 basic education schools in the whole country.

Over 45 e-Education Learning Centers have been established in universities, degree colleges, colleges and basic education schools. Departments, boards, universities and degree colleges under the Ministry of Education now have access to the Internet with the installation of the V-SAT System. iPstar system has also been introduced in Education Colleges. New Century Resource Centre and Resource Centre for Ancient Myanmar Manuscript were opened in Yangon, commemorating the 2002 School Family Day and more such centers have also been opened in Mandalay.

These centers equipped with modern and high electronic instruments have become prominent places where researchers to basic education school children now have access to learn and study on limit to age, education level and time. Due to the accomplishment of the changes and reforms of the national education in terms of depth and breadth and also with the flourishing of national essence by the whole entire nation under the proper guidance of the Government, we have now institute the lofty and noble Myanmar Education vision; "To create an education system that can generate a learning society capable of facing the challenges of the knowledge Age" and are in the process of implementing the 30-year long term education development plan and are starting to enjoy the success of our National Education achievements.

Hence, activities to promote education for all round development, the talent of students, successful achievements in academic subjects, aesthetic education and modern technology on display during the whole 2002-2003 School Family Day celebrations which will come to an end today are the outcomes of the efforts and endeavours achieved by the entire nation to promote national Education. So these achievements are the efforts which we should take pride in. Some persons without studying the real situation of the education sector make incorrect criticism. If they learn thoroughly they will come to realize the noble aspiration of the 30 year long-term education development plan.

It is believed that fresh zeal and might can be increased and strengthened for the continuous efforts in achieving success of national education plans by holding School Family Day celebrations, awarding prizes to students and publicizing the significant success of each education sector. In this Age of Knowledge, every country in the world is striving for the development of human resources in order to develop the highly qualified human resources so as to become a modern and developed country with the slogan "Building a modern and developed nation through education".

So I would like to urge all the educational personnel, teachers, students, parents and communities to collaborate and participate actively in implementing education promotion programme. In conclusion, I would like to urge: The outstanding students to learn and study so that you all can lead and take the responsibility as intellectuals and technicians to build and protect the peaceful, modern and developed nation in the future; The education personnel at different levels and teachers to study and learn continuously in accordance with the national education programmes so as to try with best effort to produce and train the school children and youths to become talented, all-round developed good citizens, intellectuals and technicians.

Parents and communities, wellwishers and school board of trustees to continue to participate unitedly for the successful materialization of the objectives and vision of national education.

Next, Minister for Education U Than Aung also spoke on the occasion. In his address, the minister said that first of all, I would like to express my appreciation to have an opportunity to deliver an honourable speech, on behalf of the Ministry of Education, for the endeavours made at school, township, state/ division and national levels, for the implementation of the National Education Promotion Programmes of the 30 Year Long Term Plan during the second year of the First Five Year Short Term Plan.

Being the fifth anniversary of the School Family Day Festival that has been held on 3rd January every year since 1998-99 academic year in accord with the Education Promotion Programmes, over 2.7 lakhs of educational staff and teachers, parents, communities and well-wishers together with about 7.5 million students have held improvement shows of talented student, competitions, fun fares and prize distribution ceremonies. They also have friendly discussions on all-round development of the students and conduct education activities. At the same time, School Family Day exhibitions, competitions, prize distribution ceremonies are being held at township and state/division levels.

The 2002-2003 Central Level School Family Day Festival has been held in Yangon from 27 December 2002 till 3 January 2003 today the following objectives:-

*Training good citizens who are able to build and protect a modern developed nation; Producing professionals with initiation and creativity:

*Nurturing able persons who are able fit and intellectual, who can promote and conserve traditional culture, national characteristics and social values , and who are patriotic and have union spirit;

*Utilizing Information and Communication Technology in teching and learning processes; and

*Promoting momentum in the implementation of the National Education Denelopment Plan.

Opening ceremony of School Family Day, exhibitions on e-Education in Myanmar -2003 and co-curricula activities, educational bllk festival, school band contest, education family regatta, concert, paper reading session, Myanmar and international Etiquette Competition, Pa-htan recitation and march pass and parade of outstanding students have been held successfully and form which it now continues to hold this prize awarding ceremony.

Also in Mandalay, School Family Day is being held from 26 December 2002 to 3 January 2003 as the sub-central level for Upper Myanmar. As Chairman of Myanmar Education Committee and Decretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt has already explained in detail about the objectives ot education plan and programmes, I would present the significant progresses made during the second year of the First Five Year Short Term Plan of the 30 Year Long Term Plan.

The achievements of the Education Sector during the 2002-2003 academic year can be outlined as follows:-

*The two education seminars on basic education sector and higher education sector were held at the dead of April and the first week of May 2002 respectively. The education activities for 2002-2003 academic year have been laid down by assessing the activities undertaken during the first year of the 30 Year Long Term Plan. At these seminars, 762 representatives from the higher education sector and 3200 from the basic education sector participated. In the basic education sector, the township and district level seminars were held and education activities have been implemented since the beginning of this academic year.

*According to All School Age Children in Shool Project, committees are formed at different levels from central to village/school, among regional authorities, educational staff, departmental personnel, social organizations, well-wishers, parents and communities. Data on school going age children, over age children for schooling and adult literate were collected from the end of April to the first week of June in every township. 93.07% of school going age children (1.04 million in number) enrolled in KG as a result of the mobilization for all children in schools and provision of books, stationery, school uniforms, and financial support. 98.36% of school going age children unrolled in KG in 55 project townships. Due to the mobilization of committees at different levels, 1.9 lakhs of 6 year old and above children enrolled and therefore, there are 1.23 million KG students. Up to the end of August 2002, there are 4.93 million students attending primary schools. Teachers, parents, communities and well-wishers work together to oversee regular attendance and retention in schools.

*Primary schools with capacity to accommodate more students, who have difficulties to access to secondary education, are upgraded to post-primary schools in order to increase transition rate. This Year, 2410 primary schools have already been upgraded to post-primary schools including 696 post-primary schools of previous year. Currently, 135,000 fifth and sixth graders are attending in those schools. Transition rate has been increased to 80% from 66%. This year, middle school students have been increased to 1.92 million, which is 227% of that in 1989-90 academic year and over 111% of the previous year.

*In the overall basic education sector, the total enrollment has reached over 7.48 million students, which is over 125% of that in 1989-90 academic year and over 104% of the previous year. It is obvious that repetition rate decreases due to the change in education assessment and evaluation system. The number of schools increase to 120% with the ration of 3 schools in 5 villages instead of one-in-two.

*As the number of students increases, facilities like classrooms and furniture are being contributed by parents, communities and wellwihers apart from the provisions of the State.

*Literacy programmes are also undertaken in states and divisions.

*On anew Education College has been opened and four existing Education Collegews have been upgraded to provide two year training courses in order to cover the required number of teachers, as the number of students is increasing.

*Preserve teacher training courses for undergraduates, post-graduate diploma, master and doctorate courses have been opened. Correspondence teachers teaching programmes, education college-based and township-based programmes are being provided for in-serve teachers.

*With the contribution of parents, communities and wellwishers, information and communication technology, electronic data broadcasting system, Internet and multimedia are being utilized in teaching learning process in basic education schools to promote the quality of education.

*Talented students training programme is implemented in 38 basic education schools and taught by professors a from universities aiming to produce professionals. In order to conserve traditional culture, national identity, to install patriotism and the union spirit, students participate in the Myanmar Traditional Performing Art Competition. Moreover, aesthetic education is included in basic education curriculum.

- for this academic year, 14 July Sunday is regarded and observed as School Greening Day, 12-17 August as School Health Week, 19 October as Sanitation Day for School and its Environs in accord with the education calendar with the objective of producing all-round developed citizens.

- Talented students in all-round development activities at different levels of basic education are selected from the end of October to mid December for School Family Day which falls on 3 January 2003.

- In the higher education sector, post-graduate courses for master and doctorate degrees are being increased to produce highly qualified human resources. Regional human resources development programmes are being provided at the respective human resource development centers in universities and colleges. New universities and colleges have been opened in 24 special regions for development, totaling to 151 allover the country and about 7.3 lakhs of university students are attending in these institutions.

-Students from both basic and higher education levels participate in the international and ASEAN competitions on literature, arts, athletics and academic during the State and United Nations commemorative days. Moreover, they actively participate in talks, competitions on essay, poem, painting, poster drawing held with the aim to prevent HIV/AIDS and drug abuse.

Thus, it is observed that National Education Development Programmes for 2002-2003 academic year are successfully accomplished by the fully participation from local authorities, educational personnel, teachers, departmental personnel, social organizations, wellwishers, parents and communities. On behalf of the educational personnel and students, I would like to thank wellwisher who donated K 323 lakhs for the central level School Family Day celebration. In conclusion, I would like to thank State authorities and concerned personnel for their guidance and supervision for the successful implementation of the education development activities. I would like to honour all the responsible personnel from the Ministry of Education, departments and boards, educational personnel, teachers, social organizations, wellwishers, parents and communities who have fully participated.

Also I would like to urge for the continued participation in achieving the objectives of the 30-year Long-term Plan. On behalf of the Ministry of Education, I would like to express my thanks to outstanding students who have participated in School Family Day from school level to central level, students who have involved in talented show and entertainment programmes and students who have participated in School Family Day activities.

At the same time, I would like to urge you all to become resourceful persons in the future State by achieving the aims of School Family Day.

Then, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt presented prizes to all-round outstanding students of tenth grade in the 2002-2003 academic year and had a documentary photo taken together with them.

Lt-Gen Soe Win presented prizes to all-round outstanding students of eighth grade in the 2002-2003 academic year and had a documentary photo taken together with them.

Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe gave away prizes to students excellent in the science combination of the tenth grade in the 20022--3 academic year and had a documentary photo taken together with them.

Then, Minister for Cooperatives Lt-Gen Tin Ngwe and Minister for Mines Brig-Gen Ohn Myint gave away prizes to students excellent in the arts combination of the tenth grade in the 2002-2003 academic year and had a documentary photo taken together with them.

Minister for Health Maj-Gen Ket Sein and Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen Sein Htwa also gave away prizes to outstanding students of the eighth grade in the 2002-2003 academic year and had a documentary photo taken together with them.

Minister for Science and Technology U Thaung and Minister for Home Affairs Col Tin Hlaing gave away prizes to students excellent in the school activities of the tenth grade and had a documentary photo taken together with them.

Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung and Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Brig-Gen Maung Maung Thein also presented prizes to students excellent in the school activities of the eighth grade and had a documentary photo taken together with them.

Next, school girls of No 1 BEHS of Dagon Township gave entertainment, and then students from Mandalay representing the No 2 Basic Education Department staged duel performance.

Minister for Education U Than Aung and Chairman of Civil Service Selection and Training Board Dr Than Nyun presented certificates of honour to students standing from first to tenth in the matriculation examination of the 2001-2002 academic year. They then posed for a documentary photo.

U Htein Win and Daw Myint Myint of Myitmakha Engineering Co Ltd gave away gold medals to Naw Thitsa Moe Myint of PyinOoLwin BEHS, who stood first in the science combination, and Ma Thin Ei San of Zalopma affiliated BEHS, who stood first in arts combination, in the matriculation examination of the 2001-2002 academic year.

U Maung Maung Lwin and Daw Sein Sein of Alpha Hotel presented a gold medal to Ma Ei Sanda Nyein of No 1 BEHS in Dagon Township, who stood second in the science combination, in the matriculation examination of the 2001-2002 academic year.

Minister for Culture Maj-Gen Kyi Aung presented certificates of honour to students who won gold in the 10th Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions.

Then, students from No 2 BEHS of Kamayut Township and No 2 BED (Mandalay) gave performance.

Minister for Sports Brig-Gen Thura Aye Myint presented certificates of honour to students who came in first in international athletic sports and had a documentary photo taken together with them.

Deputy Minister for Information Brig-Gen Aung Thein presented certificates of honour to students who topped in international literature, painting and poster competitions and had a documentary photo taken together with them.

Auditor-General Brig-Gen Tin Aye gave away certificates of honour to bang troupes which secured first in the third band contest in 2002.

Deputy Minister for Forestry Col Theik Tun gave away certificates of honour to basic education high schools excellent in the tasks for greening school environment and had a group photo taken. Secretary of Yangon City Development Committee Col Myint Aung gave away certificates of honour to schools with health food shops and had a group photo taken.

Deputy Ministers for Education Brig-Gen Soe Win Maung and U Myo Nyunt gave away certificates of honour to students who stood first, second, third and consolation prize in Myanma Affairs and Myanmar etiquette skill competition. They then posed for a group photo together.

Deputy Minister for Labour Brig-Gen Win Sein presented certificates of honour to students who stood first in the essay contest in 2002. Then, they posed together for a group photo.

Assistant Managing Director U Sein Tun of Myanmar Tokiwa Co Ltd presented certificates of honour to students who won first in Tokiwa pencil drawing contest.

Afterwards, students gave entertainment with songs and the ceremony came to an end. After the ceremony, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt cordially greeted with students and posed together with them for a souvenir photo.

Religion

Secretary-1 attends Shwehtidaw hoisting ceremony of Khaungphu Inkura Pagoda

Yangon, 3 Jan - Shwehtidaw hoisting ceremony of the Khaungphu Inkura Pagoda was held at the pandal near the pagoda in Khaungphu Village in Myitkyina Township at 10.30 am yesterday, attended by Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt.

First, the ceremony was opened with the three-time recitation of Namo Tassa. Then, the Secretary-1 and the congregation received the Nine Precepts from the vice-chairman Sayadaw of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee. Afterwards, members of the Sangha recited parittas.

Next, the Secretary-1 presented the Seinphudaw to be hoisted atop the pagoda and soon bowl to be offered to the pagoda and Commander Maj-Gen Maung Maung Swe, Hnagmyatnadaw and offertories to the vice-chairman Sayadaw.

Then, the ministers and the congregation presented offertories to members of the Sangha. The vice-chairman Sayadaw delivered a sermon, and the Secretary-1 and wellwishers shared the merits gained. Afterwards, the Secretary-1 and party and wellwishers conveyed the tiers of Shwehtidaw, Hnagmyat-nadaw and Seinphudaw round the pagoda and hoisted atop it. Then, the Secretary-1 sprinkled scented water over the Shwehtidaw. The ceremony concluded with the three-time recitation of Buddha Sasanam Siram Titatu.

The Secretary-1 performed the rituals of golden and silver showers to mark success of the ceremony. Before the commencement of the ceremony, the Secretary-1 and party paid homage to the Buddha Image at the prayer hall of Khaungphu Lawka Marazein Pagoda and inspected the all-round renovation tasks of the pagoda.

Secretary- 1 attend merit-sharing ceremony of Khanda Ordination hall in Padagyi Model Village, foundation stone laying ceremony of e-Library in Kyauktai1 Township

Yangon, 3 Jan - The merit-sharing ceremony of Khanda ordination hall of Padagyi Pariyatti Sarthintaik was held at the ordination hall at lO.30am today. Secretary- 1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt attended the ceremony and presented offertories to members of the Sangha.

First, the ceremony was opened with the three-time recitation of Namotassa.

Then, the Secretary-l formally unveiled the stone inscription of the ordination hall and sprinkled scented water over the stone inscription.

Afterwards, Secretary-l General Khin Nyunt and wife Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe, and party and the congregation received the Five Precepts from the Minkyaung Sayadaw of Kyauktan. Then, Secretary-l General Khin Nyunt0 and wife Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe and family presented offertories to the , Mmkyaung Sayadaw. The: commander, the ministers and wellwishers also presented offertories to the members of the Sangha. .

Then, the Secretary-l accepted K 22,050,000 donated for the all-round renovation tasks of the ordination hall by Maj Zaw Naing Oo and party.

Minkyaung Sayadaw delivered a sermon. Then, Secretary-l General Khin Nyunt and wife Dr Daw Khin Win , Shwe and party and wellwishers shared the merits gained.

Afterwards, Secretary-l General Khin Nyuntand wife Dt Daw KhinWin Shwe performed the rituals of golden and silver showers to mark the success of the ceremony.

Then, the Secretary-l and party and wellwishers offered soon to members of the Sangha.

Afterwards, the Secretary-l and party paid homeage to Padagyi Hsanda wshin Pagoda. Deputy Minister for Religious Affairs Brig-Geil Thura Aung Ko and Myanma Traditional Artisan U Ohn Tin reported to the Secretary- Ion all-round renovation ,tasks of the pagoda, and the Secretary-l gave necessary instructions. Secretary-l General Khin Nyunt and party then inspected round the renovation works on the platform of the pagoda.

The foundation stone laying ceremony of Kyauktan Township e-Library was held at the site chosen for the library in central ward in Kyauktan at noon today. First Wellwisher U Win Myint reported to the Secretary-l on arrangements made for construction of the library with the aid of the scale model of the library .

At the auspicious time. the Secretary-l placed the jewellery casket at the centre of the foundation. Then. the Secretary-l. Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe. ministers. the Chief of Staff (Navy) and wellwisher U Win Myint laid the bricks of the foundation. Next, the Secretary-l fixed the stone plaque iI,1 the foundation and sprinkled scented water on it. After the ceremony, the Secretary-'f performed the rituals of golden and silver showers to mark the success of the ceremony.

The Secretary-l proceeded to the Sasana Beikmandawgyi inKyauktan and paid homage to the Buddha Image there.

Afterwards, the Secretary-l accepted the cash donated for social welfare tasks by wellwishers including K2.5 million each by U Win Myint of Shwe Nagamin Co, Dr Ko Ko Gyi of Diamond Star Co and U Mya Han of Fortune Int'l Co Ltd and K 2,503,500 by U Zaw Zaw Naing of Maykhala Co.

Then, the Secretary-l in- spected the finishing touches of the Sasana Beikmandawgyi. The Secretary-l and party arrived back here in ti1e afternoon.

Region

Secretary-1 attends opening of 55th Anniversary Independence Day Exhibition

Yangon, 3 Jan - Under the Objectives of the 55th Anniversary Independence Day all the national people to collectively safeguard the national independence and ensure perpetuation of sovereignty; all the national people to collectively strive for the building of a new, modern and developed nation; all the national people to be united to ensure non-disintegration of the Union and non-disintegration of national solidarity; and all the national people to strive for the emergence of an enduring State Constitution, a ceremony to open the 55th Anniversary Independence Day Exhibition, organized by the subcommittee for the observance of the exhibition, was held at Tatmadaw Convention Hall on U Wisara Road in Dagon Township at 9.30 am today.

Chairman of the Central Committee for the Observance of the 55th Anniversary Independence Day Exhibition Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt attended the ceremony.

U Hla Win of Myanma Radio and Television acted as masters of ceremony. Chairman of the Subcommittee for the Observance of the Exhibition Deputy Minister for Information Brig-Gen Aung Thein formally opened the exhibition.

Then, Secretary-1 and party viewed the central booth displayed in commemoration of the 55th Anniversary Independence Day at the exhibition.

The Secretary-1 and party also viewed the booths of Myanmar the origin of human being, Bagan Cybertech's computer, Soft Guide computer, independence struggles and the attainment and safeguard of independence, Information and Public Relations Department's scenic Myanmar, cherishable Myanma cultural arts, the computer quiz, and the colour photo booths of developing Myanmar, and Internet booth of Forever Group.

Next, the Secretary-1 and party viewed the booths of the Ministries of Industry-1 and 2, the Ministry of Electric Power, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control, the Ministry of Communications, Posts and Telegraphs, and the News and Periodicals Enterprise.

Then, the Secretary-1 left the Tatmadaw Hall in the morning. The 55th Anniversary Independence Day Exhibition will be put on Internet and it will be the very first time for a Myanmar exhibition to be put on Internet. There are book shops of NPE and Sarpay Beikman at the exhibition which is kept open from 9 am to 5 pm daily till 12 January.

Secretary-1 inspects regional development in Myitkyina, Bhamo

Yangon, 3 Jan - Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt met with members of state, district and township Peace and Development Councils, division, district and township level departmental officials, members of the Union Solidarity and Development Association, social organizations, townselders and state cultural troupe at the City Hall of Myitkyina yesterday morning and gave instructions.

First, Chairman of Kachin State Peace and Development Council Commander of Northern Command Maj-Gen Maung Maung Swe reported on population and national races in Kachin State, GDP, services and economy, total land areas and cultivable land, target for cultivation of monsoon paddy in 2002-2003, cultivation of paddy and output, target for cultivation of summer paddy and progress of cultivation, target for cultivation of oil crops in 2002-2003, kinds of crops cultivated, target for cultivation of beans and pulses and cultivation and kinds of crops, cultivation of industrial crops and perennial crops, livestock breeding, forest products, cultivation of Thitseint, mining sector, establishment of industrial areas, projects of Kachin State and achievements, and power supply and use of power in Kachin State.

Then, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt made a speech. He said that they arrived there to fulfil the requirements for development of Kachin State, adding that they yesterday arrived in Mohnyin and Magaung and attended to the needs of education, health and social sectors. They today met with the departmental officials, members of social organizations and townselders to be able to give necessary instructions to them, he noted. Local authorities and departmental officials will have to make concerted and harmonious efforts to realize the national objectives laid down by the State at the end of the fiscal year. Kachin State was four or five years late in peace prevalence in contrast to other regions and the development tasks have to be carried out four or five year late, he stressed.

Thus, local authorities, departmental officials and local people are make relentless and sustained efforts to enable the Kachin State to keep pace with other states and divisions in terms of development. At a time when the Government took the State's responsibility, there were much armed insurgency and it has to make strenuous efforts with firm conviction for restoring peace in the regions. Taking lessons of the past, the Government has restored peace with firm conviction in a most possible and practical way after conforming the desire of the national races and the policy of the State, he said. In reminiscence of the cause of deterioration of peace and tranquillity, it was vividly seen that it was caused due to disunity of the national brethren based on suspicion. Colonialists drove a wedge among the national races for years to create much problems and when they were in a position to unavoidably give independence they subjected to divide-and-rule policy.

The root cause of the national disunity was the internal instigation and internal power struggle. At a time when there was no peace and tranquillity due to armed insurgency, there was no one who could make restore peace and tranquillity and the people only had to suffer more and more. Therefore, peace and tranquillity has been restored owing to the far-sightedness and magnanimity of the heads of Tatmadaw. The Union of Myanmar was home to various national races and the national unity based on mutual trust and understanding, magnanimity and straightforwardness.

The Government could not accept the disintegration of peace and tranquillity and national unity that had to be restored in a difficult position and so did the national races. Strenuous efforts are to be made to be able to keep pace with the nations which have already restored peace and tranquillity in terms of economic, education, technical and human resources development. Measures will have to be taken to enable the nation to keep abreast with the nations of the world as Myanmar is now to make efforts for national development. All the national people were to be aware of the internal and external instigation with every intention of disintegrating the national unity when national development was still in its infancy.

The nationalism and Union Spirit were to be adopted after realizing the fabrications and instigation manufactured by internal and external destructive elements with the intention of disintegrating and crippling the Union. In view of national solidarity, the Government has been making efforts for equitable development the length and breadth of the nation after designating three development projects. First, the border areas and national races development project which covers measures for development of local people and border areas; second, the 24 development zones which cover measures for equitable development throughout the nation; and third, the five rural development tasks which cover measures for up lifting the social and living standard of local people in border areas.

The Government alone cannot be carry out for the successful implementation of the three development projects and it was required for cooperation and coordination among local authorities and service personnel as well as members of social organizations and local people. In conclusion, the Secretary-1 urged heads of department at different levels, service personnel and the entire national people to make sustained and relentless efforts to enable the nation to stand tall among nations of the world and perpetuation of national sovereignty adopting nationalism and Union Spirit and safeguarding against instigation and fabrications by internal and external destructive elements.

After the ceremony, the Secretary-1 and party attended the Shwehtidaw hoisting ceremony in Khaungphy Village, Myitkyina Township, and hoisted the Shwehtidaw atop Khaungphy Inkura Pagoda.

Next, the Secretary-1 and party left there by helicopter and inspected Kantawyan Thitkhet Diversion Dam and irrigated farmland, cultivation of paddy, and arrangements for land reclamation in Waingmaw Township on board helicopter. Afterwards, they arrived in Bhamo where they were welcomed by Tactical Operations Commander Col Aung Nyein, local authorities, departmental officials and USDA members.

First, the Secretary-1 and party proceeded to construction project site of Bhamo Degree College and they were welcomed there by Principal U Khin Maung Tint and faculty members. At the hall of the degree college, Commander Maj-Gen Maung Maung Swe and Deputy Minister for Education U Myo Nyunt reported on management and academic matters, installation of teaching and learning aids, power supply, transport, progress in constriction and future tasks to the Secretary-1 who gave instructions.

Then, they inspected the already completed laboratory, practical rooms and parlor for girl students. They then proceeded to the Bhamo Government Technical College. At the briefing hall, the Principal reported on the strength of students, number of faculty and admin staff, subjects being taught and the Chairman of Shwe Than Lwin Co on progress in construction, work being carried out and future tasks.

Next, Deputy Minister for Science and Technology U Nyi Hla Nge gave a supplementary report. After giving necessary instructions, the Secretary-1 and party viewed round construction of main building. They then arrived at construction project site of runway of Bhamo airport.

At the briefing hall, Minister for Transport Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe and Chairman of Shwe Than Lwin Co U Kyaw Win reported on the salient points of extension of the runway to the Secretary-1 who gave instructions. Then, the Secretary-1 and party arrived back here in the evening.

Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan, who accompanied the Secretary-1, met with officials of Kachin State sub-print house of Printing and Publishing Enterprise and state and district level departmental officials of departments and enterprises under the Ministry of Information on 2 January. Officials reported to the minister on the respective work.

Then, officials of the sub-printing house reported on work being carried out and income, arrangements for issuing of sub-printing newspapers and others. After giving the instructions, the minister inspected arrangements being made for issuing of sub-printing newspapers.

State Peace and Development Council issued Notifications on conferring titles and medals commendation

Yangon, 4 Jan - The State Peace and Development Council issued Notifications No 112003, 2/2003, 3/2003. 412003,512003.612003, 712003 and 812003 on conferring titles and medals today, the 55th Anniversary Independence Day.

Under the Notification No 112003, re1igious titles have been conferred on Sayadaws, nuns and laity. Agga Maha Pandita Titles have been conferred on 21 Sayadaws including 20 from home and one abroad. Dhammakathika Bahujanahitadhara Titles on two Sayadaws. Agga Maha Gan- thavacaka Pandita Titles on 36 Sayadaws and two nuns, Maha Ganthavacaka Pandita Titles on 48 Sayada:ws and 8 nuns, Ganthavacaka Pandita Titles ön 13 Sayadaws and one nuns. Agga Maha Kammathanacariya Titleson 11 Sayadaws,MahaKamma- thanacariya Titles on 6 Sayadaws; Kammathanacariya Titles on 3 Sayadaws, Abhidhaja Agga Maha Saddhammajotika Titles on 3 Sayadaws, Agga Maha Saddhammadj otikadhaj a Titles on ?6 Sayadaws including 51 from home and 5 abroad, Maha Saddham- majotikadhaja Titles on 27 Sayadaws, two nuns and one laity .Saddhammajotikadhaja Titles on 9 Sayadaws and one nun, Agga Maha Thiri SudhalJ1ma Manijotadhara Title on one laity: Thiri Sudhamma Mani jotadhara Titles on 8 laity, Thiha Sudhamma Manijotadhara Titles on 3 laity , Agga Maha Thiri Sudhamma Theingi Titles on two laity. Thiri Sudhamma Theingi Titles on 10 laity and Thaha Sudhamma Theingi Titles on 91aity.

Under the Notification No212003, Ga1lantry Medals are presented to 3 persons, Medals for Excellence Performance in Science (Second Class) to two persons, Medals for Excellence Performance in Science (Third Class ) to two persons, Medals for Excellence Performance in Arts (First Class ) to 10 persons, Medals for Excellence Performance in Medicine (Second Class) to 7 persons, Medals for Excellence Performance in Medicine (Third Class) to 8 persons, Medals for Excellence Predominance in Technology (Third Class) to 3 persons. Medals for Excellence Performance in Agricultural Field (Second Class) to 3 persons. Medals for Excellence Performance in Agricultural Field (Third Class) to 13 persons. Medals for Excellence Performance in Industrial Field (Second Class) to 28 persons. Medals for Excellence Performance in Industrial Field (Third Class) to 93 persons. Medals for Excellence Performance in Administrative Field (First Class) to 43 persons. M~s for Excellence Performance in Administrative Field (Secnd Class) to 118 persons. Medals for Excellence Performance in Administrative Field (Third Class) to 143 persons. Medals for Excellence Performance in Social Field (First Class) to 39 persons. Medals for Excellence Performance in Social Field (Second Class) to 73 persons. Medals for Excellence Performance in Social Field (Third Class) to 153persons. Ye Thura Medal to one person, Ye Bala Medals to two persons. Ye Thurein Medals to 7 persons. Ye Kyawswa Medals to 6 persons and Ye Kyawthu Medal to one person, totaling .758 persons.

Under the Notification No 312003. Military Service Thingaha Medal is presented to 1243 personnel.

Under the Notification No 4/2003. Military Good Service Medal is presented to 3293 personnel-35 retired personnel and 3.258 personnel.

Under the Notification No 5/2003. Public Service Medal is presented to 5983 personnel - 261 retired personnel and 5722 personnel. Under the Notification No 6/2003, Good MPF Service Medal is presented to 42 personnel.

Under the Notification No 712003, MPF Service Meda1 is presented to 179 personnel.

Under the Notification No 8/2003, Public Service Medal is presented to 15437 personnel -121 retired personnel and 15316 personnel and State Peace and Tranquility Medal is presented to 25010 personnel - l09 retired personnel and 24,901 personnel.

Union of Myanmar State Peace and Development Council Notification No 112003
2nd Waxing of Pyatho 1364 ,(4 January 2003)

The State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar has appointed religious titles to the following Most Venerable Sayadaws, Ganthadura Pariyatti Lecturer Sayadaws, Vipassanadhura Pariyatti Meditation Instructors Sayadaws, Turing Dhamma Preachers, national and foreign missionary figures and outstanding donors of the Four Essentials to the Buddhist Sasana.

Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Gum Title

1. Bhaddanta.Acinnabhivamsa, Gawthitayama yaungtaik, Kanyon Ward, Dawei Township, Taninthayi Division

2. BhaddantaPanfiasamibhivamsa, Masoeyein Kyaungtaik (old), Mahaaungmye Township, Mandalay Division

"Agga Maha Pandita Title

1. Bhaddanta Nandiyasara, Chanthagyi Kyaungtaik, Aungchantha Ward, YeU, Sagaing Division

2. Bhaddanta Kusala, Abbot Training School, Shwebo, Sagaing Division

3. Bhaddanta Lasana, Hlebee Kyaungtaik, Kanphya Ward, Myeik, Taninthayi Division

4. Bhaddanta Vimala, Otthathiri Kyaungtaik. Nandawya Ward, Bago, Bago Division (East)

5. Bhaddanta Neyadhammabhivamsa, Kyakhatwaing Pariyatti Sarthintaik, Bago, Bago Division (East)

6. BhaddantaVepulla, Mogaung Kyaungtaik, Ward 1, Thegon, Bago Division (West)

7. Bhaddanta Tejobhasa, Maha WithutayamaKyaungtaik, Pakokku, Magway Division

8.Bhaddanta Nandavamsa, Sasana Zawtikayon Kyaungtaik, Ward 18, Myingyan, Mandalay Division

9. Bhaddanta Manitasiribhivamsa, Thahtaytan Kyaung, Maha Withokdayon Taikthit, East Daewun Ward, Manaaungmye, Mandalay Division

10. BhaddantaTejaniyabhivamsa, TatU Maha Gandayon Kyaungtaik, Ward 7, PyinOoLwin, Mandalay Division

11. Bhaddanta Suriyabhivamsa, Moetar Kyaung, West Khinmagan Taik, Chanayethazan, Mandalay Division

12. Bhaddanta Javana, Gwegyo Kyaungtaik,EastThirimala, Chanf.yethazan, Mandalay Division

13. Bhaddanta Panfiobhasabhivamsa, Dekkhinayama Phayagyi Taik. Kyunlon Okshaung Ward, Chanmyathazi, Mandalay Division

14. BhaddantaSifinda,LewunKyaungtaik, Theingon Ward, Thaton, Mon State

15. Bhaddanta Narindabhivamsa, Phayabyu Kyaungtaik, Ward 10, Pazundaung Township, Yangon Division

16. Bhaddanta Vasava, Myakyin Nayaka Kyaung, Mahasi Sasana Yeiktha, Bahan, Yangon Division

17. Bhaddanta INgisa, Palikayi Pariyatti Kyaungtaik, Industrial Ward, Thakayta, Yangon Division

18. Bhaddanta Vunnita, State Pariyatti Sasana University, Ward 7,Mayangon, Yangon Division

19. Bhaddanta Kovida, Zawanayama Kyaungtaik, Myakantha Ward, Hsihseng, Shan State (South)

20. Bhaddanta Candimasiri, Pariyatti Minkyaungtaik, Ward 3, Maubin, Ayeyawady Division

Title recipient Sayadaws from abroad

21. Bhaddanta Jinalankara, Sangharaja Maha Vihara Kyaungtaik, Randombe Ambalangoda, Sri Lanka

Dhammakahtika Bahujanahitadhara Title

1. Bhaddanta Chekinda, International Theravada Buddhist Missionary University, Ward 5, Mayangon, Yangon Division

2. Bhaddanta Dhammavara, Inya Kyaungtaik, Inlya Village, Nyaungshwe, Shan State (South)

Agga Maha Ganthavacaka Pandita Title

1. Bhaddanta Pandita, Mingala Pariyatti Sarthintaik, Shwegu, Kachin State

2. Bhaddanta Inda9ara, Yunhset Kyaungtaik, Maunghtaung Village, Budalin, Sagaing Division

3. Bhaddanta Sumanasami, Shwetaung Kyaungtaik, Myoma Ward, ChaungU, Sagaing Division

4. Bhaddanta Sethila, East Ledi Kyaungtaik, Monywa. Sagaing Division

5. Bhaddanta Panditabaravhivamsa, Migadawun Kyaungtaik, Htonbon Ward, Sagaing, SagaingDivision

6. Bhaddanta Janinda9ara, Aungmyebontha Kyaungthit, Thiha Ward, Myinmu, Sagaing Division

7. Bhaddanta Sumana. Khemathiwun Kyaungtaik, Thasi Ward,'Nattalin, Bago Division (West)

8. Bhaddanta Nagavamsa, Withokdayon Bayanathi Kyaungtaik, Nawin Ward, Pyay, Bago Division (West)

9. Bhaddanta. Sadhina. Phyaukseikpin Kyauktaik Letpandon Ward Natmauk, Magway Division

10. Bhadqanta Nanindasara" Myitzimayon Parami Sarthintaik, Ward 2, Yezagyo Magway Division

11. Bhaddarita Nagasenabhivamsa Sasana Theikpan Kyaungtaik; Hsashwekin Ward. Magway, Magway Division

12. Bhaddanta Sobhina; Maha Withutayama (Middle) Taik, Ward iO, Pakokku. Magway Division

13. Bhaddanta Indaka. Dhammacariya Aye Kyaung, Nyaunggan Taik, Chanmyathazi (South) Ward. Chanmyathazi. Manda1ay Division

14. Bhaddanta Sujanapiya. Meiktila Kyaung. Maha Dhammikayama Taik. Kyunlon Okshaung Ward. Chanmyathazi. Manda1ay Division

15. Bhaddanta Visuhivamsa. SasanaZawtikayon Kyaungtaik. Ward 5. Madaya. Mandalay Division

16. BhaddantaSamvara. Thukhawady Sarthintaik. Thayaaye Ward. Kyaukpadaung. Mandalay Division

17. Bhaddanta Nana1ankarabhivamsa. State Pariyatti Sasana University .Dawnabwa Ward. Aungmyethazan. Mandalay Division

18. Bhaddanta Kovida. Sasana Wepunla Kyaungtaik. Yanmyoaung Ward, Meiktila. Mandalay Division

19. Bhaddanta Javana. Pahtamakyaw Dhamma~ariya TaikthitKyaungtaik. Wunzin Ward. Meiktila Mandalay Division

20. Bhaddanta Vilasabhivamsa. Dhammayana Kyaung. Masoeyein Taikthit. Seinban Ward. Mahaaungmye. Mandalay Division

21. Bhaddanta Khamasara. Peinne taikkyaung. Myoma Ward 3.Mudon. Mon State

22. Bhaddanta Sujana. Dhammarekkhita Kyaungtaik. Zeebingyi Village. PyinOoLwin. Mandalay Division

23. Bhaddanta Soma. Maniyadana Kyaung. Ywagyitaung Ward, Sittway. Rakhine State

Rural roads opened

Yangon, 3 Jan - Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Col Thein Nyunt and Minister for Energy Brig-Gen Lun Thi attended a ceremony to open Bawga tarred road to mark the 55th Anniversary Independence Day in Nyaungdon, Ayeyawady Division, this morning.

Local authorities formally opened the road and then the ministers and party inspected the road. Bawga road is 3,165 feet long and 12 feet wide and was built at a cost of 4.2 million kyats funded by the development affairs committee. Next, Col Thein Nyunt attended the ceremony to open the Pathwai-Yinpha rural gravel road in Pantanaw Township. He also heard reports related to the road. Then, officials formally opened the road. The Pathwai-Yinpha rural road is 4 miles 5 furlongs long and 10 feet wide and it will contribute to economic, social, health and education development of 26 villages nearby. He also attended the opening ceremony of Padauk Shwewa tarred road in Kyaunggon.

The road, built with the cash contribution of the township development affairs committee, is 1,350 feet in length and 12 feet in width. Later, he met with township officials, members of social organizations and staff of the development affairs committee and gave instructions on rural development tasks. He then inspected the place where a new wooden bridge crossing Kinwagyi creek will be constructed. At the primary school in Thayetngu village of Pantanaw Township, he met with heads of nearby villages and villagers. He gave instructions on rural development activities and attended to the needs.

He also inspected the rural road axis that will link Khahtiya village and Pantanaw-Wakema road, and Pantanaw-Gonmin rural road.

HOME		49th MYANMAR MEDICAL CONFERENCE 15^th-21^st Jan 2003, TAUNGOO
ARCHIVE	Saturday, 4 January 2003	ONLINE EDITION