RAR-Institute: Empowering Rohingya Students Through Research and Education

By: RO Maung Shwe

In a world where access to education is often taken for granted, a group of passionate Rohingya youths is breaking barriers to create opportunities for their community. Among them is Mr. Kyaw Maung Soe, the visionary Founder and CEO of the Rohingya Academic Research Institute (RAR-Institute). Despite facing displacement and persecution, these young leaders have committed themselves to academic excellence, research, and advocacy, ensuring that Rohingya students can pursue knowledge and build a brighter future.

Mr. Kyaw Maung Soe completed his matriculation and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from Sittwe University in Myanmar. However, due to persecution and mass killings committed by the Myanmar military junta against the Rohingya minority, he was forced to flee the country.

Later, he received a prestigious scholarship funded by the Turkish Government, allowing him to pursue higher education. He obtained a Master’s degree in Political Science and Public Administration from Ankara Yildirim Beyazit University, Turkey, and was later admitted to the PhD program at Ankara University, one of Turkey’s most prestigious institutions.

Currently, Mr. Kyaw Maung Soe works as a Research Project Manager at GRT, a US-based research INGO, while simultaneously mentoring and guiding over a hundred Rohingya research learners at the university level through the RAR-Institute.

About the Rohingya Academic Research Institute (RAR-Institute)

The Rohingya Academic Research Institute (RAR-Institute) is the first research institute in the history of the Rohingya community, established by Rohingya scholars. It aims to enhance academic research excellence, leadership development, and advocacy to empower the Rohingya community.

Through rigorous research, specialized training, and capacity-building programs, RAR-Institute addresses the challenges faced by the Rohingya people while contributing to the global academic landscape. The institute operates based on a well-defined constitution that outlines its structure and mission, serving as a guiding document for all its members and activities.

Establishment and Mission

Founded in 2022, the RAR-Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of the Rohingya people. Its team consists of researchers, advocates, and community leaders passionate about making a difference.

RAR-Institute collaborates with local organizations, academics, and activists to drive change and support those in need. The organization aims to contribute globally to academic research, advocacy, and leadership development, promoting the empowerment of Rohingya populations worldwide.

Core Objectives

• Conducting high-quality research on Rohingya social, political, cultural, and historical issues.
• Providing leadership and advocacy training to empower Rohingya youths.
• Promoting both soft and hard skills training, including communication, critical thinking, and technical expertise.
• Advocating for the rights, dignity, and recognition of the Rohingya people at national and international levels.
• Collaborating with academic institutions, NGOs, and other stakeholders to achieve shared goals.
• Documenting, preserving, and publishing studies on Rohingya history, culture, identity, and politics.

Membership Eligibility

RAR-Institute welcomes dedicated members; however, individuals involved in other Rohingya organizations or armed groups are not eligible for membership. General students engaged with the institute can apply. The Board of Trustees and Executive Board Members review applicants to determine their eligibility. Approved members must actively participate in RAR-I’s activities, contribute to its mission, and abide by its constitution.

Leadership of the Organization

RAR-Institute is led by a team of dedicated Rohingya youth who are driving significant change among refugee students and emerging young leaders. The organization has established a structured leadership system with distinct departments, including Secretaries, the Board of Trustees, Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, External Relations, Advocacy, Alumni Relations, and the Advisory Board.

At the core of RAR-Institute’s leadership is the Central Executive Committee (CEC), also known as the Academic Research Team, which plays a fundamental role in the institute’s strategic direction. The committee members serve in the following capacities:

• Mr. Mohammed Solim – Management Director
• Mr. Liaqat Ali Roshid – Research Team Director
• Mr. Mohammed Arif – Education Director
• Mrs. Parwin Shwe – Deputy Director of Education
• Mr. Kaiser Komor – Design Director
• Mr. Mohammed Siraj – Research Team Coordinator
• Mr. Mohammed Aziz – Technical Specialist
• Mr. Shwe Maung Thein – Media Spokesperson
• Mr. Abdur Rahman – Facilitator
• Mr. Misbahur Rahman – Monitoring Director
• Mr. Mohammed Anis – Communication Director

Driven by expertise, dedication, and passion, this leadership team consists of experienced researchers, scholars, and specialists. Each member brings a wealth of knowledge and an unwavering commitment to advancing research, education, and advocacy for the Rohingya community.

Current Activities of RAR-Institute

RAR-Institute has been actively providing training on research methodologies to its members, enhancing their academic knowledge and research skills. Additionally, the institute conducts regular classes for students, ensuring access to quality education and skill development. To further enrich its academic programs, RAR-Institute engages highly qualified scholars and university professors from various countries to deliver specialized lectures on research studies.

Many distinguished lecturers and scholars have already contributed to insightful sessions covering a range of research-related topics. Through the dedication of passionate Rohingya youth leaders, RAR-Institute continues to make a significant impact on the community, shaping the future of Rohingya students through research, advocacy, and education.

For more information:

• Email: info@rohingya-arf.org
• Website: RAR-Institute