Lack of education led to PDF formation, claims interim president Min Aung Hlaing; says education is key to acquiring skills and is being prioritized

The transformation of many young people into the People's Defence Force (PDF) in the resistance movement that arose due to the military coup was caused by a lack of formal education and literacy, according to the military leader and interim president, Min Aung Hlaing. The interim president made these remarks during a meeting with local dignitaries and subordinates in Minbu town, Magway Region, on July 12. "This situation arises from the lack of logical reasoning and decision-making abilities in response to the incitement and instigation by organizations and individuals who do not desire stability and peace. The main cause is the deficiency in formal education and literacy," the interim president Min Aung Hlaing was quoted as saying in a propaganda newspaper. Furthermore, he reiterated the same baseless justifications as before for the military's seizure of power, claiming it was due to electoral fraud in the 2020 multi-party general election, in which the National League for Democracy (NLD) won a majority. Min Aung Hlaing continued to persuade the public, stating that a lack of education can lead to a decline in individuals' socio-economic lives and cause significant harm to the nation, and that only with formal education can skills be acquired, emphasizing that they are prioritizing school education. However, on the ground, the coup has led to the decline and destruction of socio-economic conditions, education, and healthcare sectors across the country. Moreover, the military junta is rapidly carrying out the conscription and arrest of young people by forcibly enacting the Conscription Law to replenish its depleted military strength. Min Aung Hlaing's interim government has been intentionally targeting innocent civilians, religious buildings, hospitals, clinics, and even schools across the country with airstrikes, arrests, and killings, drawing strong condemnation and sanctions from the United Nations, ASEAN, the United States, and various countries worldwide.