In 1998: We started Avoda School for BURMESE MIGRANTS
Burmese migrants residing in the impoverished slums of Maesot faced significant barriers to education and employment opportunities. To address this pressing need, we established a Christian school specifically for Burmese migrants in the border town of Maesot, Thailand. Approximately 150 children from the challenging conditions of the Burmese slums were enrolled, receiving crucial education that blended Christian teachings with academic instruction.
At Avoda School, our mission went beyond traditional education. We aimed to provide these children with a nurturing environment where they could not only learn core subjects but also develop morally and spiritually. Through dedicated teachers and a supportive community, we fostered an atmosphere of hope and possibility, empowering these young learners to envision a brighter future for themselves.
Over the years, Avoda School has become a beacon of hope and transformation in Maesot, nurturing generations of Burmese migrant children with the tools they need to break the cycle of poverty and contribute positively to their communities.
As we continue our journey, we remain committed to expanding educational opportunities and empowering marginalized communities, believing in the potential of every child to thrive and make a difference in the world.
Maesot Project
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Visiting Children's Homes and Monitoring Student Welfare
Visiting children's homes and closely monitoring the well-being of students are integral aspects of ensuring their holistic development and happiness. These efforts play a crucial role in providing emotional support, fostering a sense of community, and addressing any challenges they may face.
When we visit children's homes, we step into environments where young lives are shaped by circumstances often beyond their control. These visits are not just about delivering material goods; they're about offering companionship and demonstrating that these children are valued members of society. It's an opportunity to engage with them through activities like playing games, reading stories, or simply listening to their thoughts and feelings.
Moreover, monitoring the well-being of students extends beyond physical health to include their emotional and psychological state. It involves regularly checking in with them, observing their interactions with peers and educators, and being attuned to any signs of distress or hardship. This proactive approach allows educators and caregivers to intervene early and provide necessary support.
By actively participating in these efforts, we contribute to creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe, supported, and encouraged to thrive. It helps build trust and rapport between caregivers, educators, and the children themselves, fostering a positive atmosphere conducive to learning and personal growth.
Ultimately, visiting children's homes and monitoring student welfare are not just responsibilities but opportunities to make a meaningful impact on young lives. It's about recognizing the importance of their well-being and ensuring that every child has the chance to reach their full potential in a caring and supportive environment. These efforts lay the foundation for a brighter future where every child feels empowered and valued in society.
Testimonials
My name is A, and I started at Avoda when I was just 5 years old in kindergarten. I have always been a diligent and hardworking student with clear goals. I dreamed of becoming a teacher one day. At Avoda, I frequently heard about God from my teachers.
I felt a desire to accept Jesus, but I wasn’t sure if it was just a fleeting feeling because I was so young. After finishing my studies at Avoda and moving on to Sathule Learning Center for further education, I never forgot about God. When I learned that Teacher Mumpie had started a church, I immediately joined the worship services.
Recently, I have grown to love God deeply. I completed a Bible study course and volunteer every week to share God’s word.God’s blessings have extended to my family as well. With Avoda’s help, I was able to obtain a 10-year residence card. They assisted with the paperwork and the process at the local district office. I am incredibly grateful to God and to Avoda for the knowledge and support they have provided me.
— A
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My name is Kinson May, and I was a student at a Non-Formal Education School (NFE) before joining Avoda. When I was six years old, I lived with my aunt’s family in Myanmar. My aunt had five young children of her own. My parents had moved to Bangkok, with only my mother providing support for me.
Additionally, my mother had to send money to support my aunt’s family every month. My father, who drank heavily, showed no interest or love for our family.
One day, war broke out in my village, and our school was closed. Everyone had to leave the area. Three months later, my mother asked me to stay with my cousins in Mae Sot. After that, my cousins enrolled me in Avoda School. At Avoda, I learned about God and my cousins took me to church.
I am incredibly grateful to the Avoda Foundation for giving me the chance to discover the true God. My family follows Buddhism and knew nothing about Jesus Christ. After accepting Jesus, I experienced a profound change in my behavior and outlook. I now trust in Jesus Christ as my Savior and attend church to worship God every Sunday.
— Kinson May
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My name is Papawin. I used to live with my mother, older sister, and father. My family follows Buddhism and had never heard of Jesus Christ. I have two siblings and, although I loved talking, I was quite mischievous. I didn’t like going to school or studying at all.
Every Saturday, Avoda teachers and volunteers would come to our village to share the Word of God. When I learned about Jesus Christ being the one true God, I accepted Him as my Savior. I started to enjoy praying to God every day.Now, I attend Mae Kulaung School, and I’ve changed completely. I love going to school and learning about Jesus Christ. I go to church every Sunday and enjoy hearing the news about God.
I am grateful to God and to Avoda for taking care of me and helping me attend a Thai school. I promise to work hard in my studies.
— Papawin
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I have a younger sister and a younger brother, and I live with my mother. My father passed away when I was young, and my mother sells vegetables to support us. She also has to pay the police every month because she doesn’t have a card.
When I was 14, I started studying at Avoda and began learning about God. One day, my mother was arrested by the police because she didn’t have a card. I remembered that the teacher had told us to pray when we faced problems, so I prayed for my mother’s release.
The next day, my mother came back, and I was astonished and overjoyed.After this experience, I decided to accept Jesus Christ. Even though it takes 40 minutes to get from my house to the church, I make sure to attend every Sunday, no matter how far it is.
— Kuay Ta Zhing Eu
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My name is Moyusa. I live with my mother and grandmother. My mother works at a factory, and her income is inconsistent. I have two siblings. When I first started at Avoda, I was stubborn and uninterested in my studies, but I enjoyed the worship sessions because I got to sing and listen to stories.
One day, my teacher invited me to church, where I met Burmese children who could speak Thai. I was inspired to attend a Thai school, and luckily, Avoda had a program to help children transfer to Thai schools. I was interested but learned that I needed to pass an exam. Although I was not very interested in studying before, I became motivated and worked hard.
I prayed to God to help me with the exam, and with His help, I passed and got into a Thai school. I am now in Grade 3 and continue to love God, attending church every Sunday. I am thankful to God and to Avoda for their support. I promise to work hard in my studies and to volunteer to share God's word. Every Saturday, I worship and sing in the village with Teacher Mumpie, and I also help tutor new students with their homework.
— Moyusa