A Call to Action and Leadership for Myanmar Youth

The Shan Youth Safety Training to End Risky Migration (SYSTERM) was created as an expansion of DEPDC’s Mekong Youth Union (MYU).  SYSTERM is an extension of DEPDC’s core tenet: that education is the key to prevention.  Through educating our children in the Sub-Mekong Region we empower them with the agency to protect themselves from human trafficking.  The young adults we train return to their communities, establish initiatives, and share the knowledge they gained at DEPDC with their peers.  Every child reached through this ever-expanding network is better prepared to combat the issues they face.  This is how DEPDC, a small community-based organization, makes a large difference in the surrounding areas.   

Our last SYSTERM update was full of exciting new developments, collaborations, and growth. SYSTERM was flourishing until Covid-19 hit and with it the many safety regulations and restrictions that were implemented halted some of the programs momentum. At this time all members of SYSYTERM are pretty quiet because the border between Thailand and Myanmar closed dueto the Covid-19 pandemic. The first bridge has been closed but the second bridge is still open. However people from both sides are not able to cross the border. The second bridge is only open for the transport of goods by shipment.Trucks carrying food, construction equipment, petrol are examples of goods allowed to cross the bridge. The shipping company is allowed to useone driver to cross the second bridge but zero passengers are allowed.These rules are strictly enforced and controlled by the policy of government by Ministry of public health, customs and immigration. 

In addition to this all schools have been shut down due to Covid-19. We are all keeping close watch on safety regulations and proposed dates of regulation lifts. As of now, all schools in Thailand and Myanmar are scheduled to reopen July 1, 2020. 

We are eagerly awaiting the day that allows us to continue bringing momentum and growth to programs like SYSTERM that are essential to our mission. 

On behalf of all the children, teachers, and volunteers at DEPDC, I would like to say thank you to all of our past, present and future donors for your generous support of our mission. People like you represent the crucial partnerships that keep our centre and programs thriving. Please continue to provide your much appreciated support and don’t forget to spread the word about SYSTERM by following, liking, and sharing our updates on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn!