SAYA FOUNDATION
Nurturing Compassionate Life-Long Learners
If you want to learn more about teachers, children,
and education in Myanmar, you are at the right place!
Mingalarbar “မင်္ဂလာပါ“
🌱 Welcome to Saya Foundation 🌱
At Saya Foundation, our heart is with the children and communities of Myanmar and beyond.
Discover What’s Here for You
At Saya Foundation, we believe everyone can play a part in nurturing learning, compassion, and a more equitable society. Choose the path that fits you best and explore the resources and programs we’ve prepared:
Inspiration, guidance, and practical resources to support your students and strengthen your community.
Resources and advice designed to support your children as they learn, grow, and flourish.
Engaging programs and activities designed to build knowledge, confidence, and skills.
Background
Saya Foundation, formerly known as Sayarma Foundation, was established in 2016 as a Library Project in Mandalay. The initial aim was to bridge divided communities through a shared platform—a library—where children and younger generations could learn together and grow in harmony. Over time, the foundation expanded its reach with a Facebook blog, sharing practical knowledge on education, teaching, and parenting. With recognition from a wider community and the support of Community Partners International, Saya Foundation extended its work to communities in Kalay and Lashio, providing technical support to schools starting in 2019.
Both Saya and Sayarma mean “Shade” in the Pali language. In Myanmar, this word was chosen to symbolize teachers as providers of a peaceful shade under which children can learn joyfully and safely. However, the original name, Sayarma, could be literally translated as “Female Teacher,” which sometimes caused confusion about whether the organization supports only women. To clarify its inclusive mission, the name was changed to Saya, a gender-neutral Pali word for “Shade.”
At Saya Foundation, we are committed to creating safe, inclusive, and supportive learning experiences for all children in Myanmar. Our vision is an equitable society where every child can access quality education and thrive in nurturing school communities. To achieve this, our mission is to strengthen Myanmar’s education sector through training, mentoring, and resources for educators, material and financial support for learners, evidence-based advocacy, and collaborative action with schools, communities, and stakeholders.
EMBRACE
Empowering Educators, Nurturing Children
EMBRACE focuses on helping teachers, parents, and community members create safe and inclusive spaces where children can flourish.
MudraMinds
Building Respectful and Connected Communities
Inspired by the Sanskrit word Mudra—a symbol of connection—MudraMinds helps people strengthen the link between actions, thoughts, and communication.
Through teacher mentorship, wellbeing programs, and capacity-building initiatives, EMBRACE supports educators to guide children with care, confidence, and creativity. see more
With a focus on inclusivity and respect, the team develops resources, offers training, and explores innovative approaches—including digital tools—to support vulnerable communities. see more
Saya Institute
Learning Under the Shade of Care
From the Pali word, Saya meaning “shade,” the Saya Institute is a welcoming space for children to learn and grow. Programs are offered both online and in person for children aged 5–15, covering
Whole School Support (WSS)
Strengthening Schools, Supporting Children
Schools thrive when communities come together. WSS partners with teachers, parents, and school leaders to ensure children have access to safe, resource-rich
subjects like English, Myanmar, Mathematics, and other cross-cutting topics. By blending academics with life skills and creativity, the Institute nurtures children’s holistic development in supportive and inspiring learning environments. see more
and supportive learning spaces. From providing teaching materials and financial aid to offering emotional guidance and technical support, WSS takes a holistic approach to strengthen schools and build lasting change. see more
IMPARTING POSITIVITIES,
UNCOVERING POSSIBILITIES,
CREATING IMPACT.
We believe in the power of imparting positivities, uncovering possibilities and creating impact.
We work with teachers, parents, educators, policy makers, community leaders, pre-service teachers, and many more.