The Group Discussion Method in Pedagogy

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Hu Wo (Cuckoo’s Song)

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The Group Discussion Method in Pedagogy

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A discussion is a situation in which students or students and a teacher converse to share information, ideas, opinions, or work to resolve a problem. But it is not a situation in which a teacher asks a question, a student or students answer it, and then the teacher asks another question. This question-answer-question format is called recitation, and its main purpose is to quiz students to determine what they know or understand.
However, a discussion can serve several purposes. One purpose is to review and extend what students have learnt to ensure their mastery of a subject. First, students see, hear or read something. Then, they discuss what they have seen and heard. Among other things, they pay attention to terms and concepts that need explanation, the major ideas presented, and the main message. The next purpose is to have students examine their ideas or opinions. After studying something, students could be asked to share their views about its appropriateness. The third purpose is to solve a problem. Herein, students are presented with political, economic or social problems to discuss and resolve. Sometimes the last purpose is to improve students’ face-to-face or interpersonal communication skills so they become better at being good contributors and active listeners, making a point, handling disagreements and conflicts, overcoming fear of speaking in public and so forth.
Discussions can be considered based on such attributes and characteristics as the interaction pattern, the teacher’s role, group size and composition, and group arrangement. Interaction during discussion is less formal as well as more conversational. Besides, the conversation can occur not only among students but also between students and teachers. In most likely discussions, everyone should be an active participant. The whole class can engage in a common discussion or it can be divided into small groups that are preferable since these allow more potential for student participation. The composition of a group will also be similar (homogenous) or dissimilar (heterogenous). Participants should be face-to-face. Thus, arranging discussion participants in a circle is most common. On occasions, a panel discussion makes sense. If the interaction is strictly among students, the teacher will have to serve as an observer, recorder and perhaps arbitrator. As a facilitator and moderator, the teacher is to enable students to reflect critically on their experiences, explore different perspectives and consider how knowledge is then rooted in personal experiences, according to circumstances like the purpose of discussion, the maturity and experience of the students.
Good discussion leaders believe that students want and need to get involved with purposeful talk; they should be asked to review and use information, explore issues and resolve problems; they are capable of thinking and doing for themselves; and they can be helped to develop via discussion. The leaders can control their talk, get students thinking, serve as skilful facilitators, human relation experts, clarifiers or summarizers and excel at teaching communication skills.
When being prepared, good discussions establish the general purpose, set specific learner objectives, consider the readiness of the class and individuals for discussion, decide what role the leader will play, the class grouping, physical arrangements, time allowance and plan the discussion. When being overseen, good discussions get students’ attention, ensure that participants understand and see the value in the purpose or goal, relate the goal and task to previous knowledge and future work, set out the specific questions or statements to be discussed, remind participants of discussion rules, monitor to ensure on-task behaviour, balanced participation and understanding, encourage participants and elevate the level of course. When being closed, the good discussions do so at the most appropriate time rather than at a specific time, summarize progress towards the goal(s), tie new learning to previous knowledge and establish what participants might next want to know or be able to do.
As discussion guidelines for students, all students should have an equal opportunity to contribute. They encourage their classmates to join in. They ensure that everyone contributes by waiting his or her turn and taking part about as much as everyone else. They listen carefully to what others say and feel. Also, they work to understand and whenever possible, to support others’ saying and feeling. They like to understand that their knowledge and ideas may not always be right. They stay on target and help others do the same. Finally, they must be gracious and have to avoid attacking or belittling their peers.
Discussions are probably attractive to teachers who have personal needs for construction, play, affiliation and student success or to those who may want to avoid giving a presentation for the reason that they do not know the subject well enough. The discussions are advantageous for students who have strong needs for acquisition, affiliation, deference, dominance, exhibition, exposition, play, recognition, sibilance and succorance. They tend to capture and maintain students’ interest, help them develop communication and social-psychological strengths or help them learn through rehearsal. But when they are not well conducted, discussions can be purposeless, rambling, confrontational, wasteful of time, inefficient and unpleasant.
So, when on earth should the discussion method be used? Discussion is used when any of its purposes coincide with the goal. Consequently, students are engaged in the discussion when the goal is to review information, examine ideas or opinions, solve problems and improve oral communication skills. When the teacher is more interested in long-term memory, higher-order thinking, motivation, attitude change or moral reasoning, discussion can be used, to best meet students’ social and psychological needs. After all, discussion is given to be effective when students have been mostly inactive listeners, when a more relaxed atmosphere is warranted and when it would be beneficial to enhance student-to-student friendships or affiliation.

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

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Deadly danger of unlimited and undisciplined drinking
Deadly danger of unlimited and undisciplined drinking
When I was young, I learned about liquor’s misdeeds from my parents, elders, and from books I read. I accumulated general knowledge, including the disadvantages of alcohol, through these sources. As I thought more about liquor, a series of thoughts came to my mind, and I ended up writing down everything that came to me.It’s not necessarily a good thing that young people no longer frequent bars these days. The places where alcohol is served, such as restaurants and hotels, are not just places where anyone can sit and drink; it’s something that even those with decent finances have to think about. It’s the kind of place that only those who have the money to spend go to. So what I want to say is that due to the rising cost of goods, people may start avoiding bars and pubs.There are some good aspects. Since drinkers can’t sit at a bar or have become unable to, they have controlled the cost of meals. However, they do not taste meals while drinking liquor. Although they do not sit at the bars to drink, bars are now popping up everywhere like mushrooms, so people still drink at home. However, it’s undeniable that the cost of meals to be eaten in the sapping bar has reduced significantly. While I’m not referring to every drinker, in general, the cost reduction for drinking has led many people to spend even more on alcohol. A good thing about the rising prices is that, when sitting at a bar, people tend to pay attention to their behaviour and become more careful not to cause trouble. So, they miss chances to commit quarrels. Bars are also less populated now, and it’s rare to find someone taking up a whole space along the route to their homes by themselves. People can only make noise at home, and they’re allowed to make only limited disturbances in the surrounding area.Everybody knows alcohol is not good. No matter what people say, whether they quote any scriptures or say this or that, if you ask why alcohol is being produced, how would you answer? If someone asks why bars are being opened, questions will arise. If you talk about the beginning of things, like the first chicken egg or the hen, it won’t hurt anyone. But thinking about how alcohol, bars, liquor stores, and alcohol consumers could be discussed in a way that might affect or harm others, well… let’s just leave it at that.From the beginning, I want to refer to the fact that young people drink alcohol, just like how it has been discussed before. I’ve encountered many alcohol users, but if we’re talking about my friend, there are those who drink while embracing life. Such situations are common. However, because they are just similar experiences, I don’t feel like talking about them. Nevertheless, I can’t stay silent anymore, and I want to speak up. This is not a created story, but a heartfelt experience. I want to talk about a dear friend I had the pleasure of knowing and share this with you.Once upon a time, there were three friends, including me. Although we met and became close when we were over 30, we built a fraternity among us deeply, with mutual understanding and affection. It was unbelievable for all that to the extent that, when one of us started to speak, we all knew what would be said and how it would end. When one person looked at another, we could understand why they were looking, and what they wanted to say, without needing any explanation. We were so close that we understood each other without words.When the time came, everyone went to their separate places, but they still kept in touch with each other, either through phone or letters. Two of them were in Yangon, and a Yangonite was in Mandalay. Back then, whenever someone arrived in Mandalay, they would greet each other just like before, with a warm welcome. Likewise, whenever someone from Mandalay came to Yangon, the remaining two would always arrange to meet up.Out of these three, the character I’m about to talk about doesn’t even seem like someone who would drink alcohol, let alone be a heavy drinker. I think they would even walk down to the river and get called for it. They don’t seem to get drunk either. They can drink without even knowing how much they’ve had. Whether you call them a liquor lover, a drinker, an alcoholic, a heavy drinker, or even something more colourful, no matter how you address them, they would still act the same. That’s why I almost want to call them the king of alcohol.In Mandalay, one person drinks when they encounter it. If they don’t encounter it, they search for it to drink. If they can live, they just live. Drinking when they encounter it means they never bear the full cost with their own money. They drink with others’ money. Drinking with others’ money has never been a burden, but his talk of boasting may be mounted like Mandalay Hill. Those who have fought with him over alcohol or beer have not only suffered but also had to pay the debts of their lifetime. At that time, his salary was at the scale of a deputy staff officer. Despite that, he still drank with others’ money.”The other person is from Yangon. Until the age of thirty, he had never drunk alcohol, smoked cigarettes, chewed betel nuts, or had a romantic partner. He lived in a very disciplined way, but this kind of person tends to become an idiot in some way. This writer is someone who has written in their mind alone and thinks that no one else can match them. I am a civilian who has not yet married and works as a gazette officer, but his salary was not so low that you wouldn’t expect him to be able enough of himself. At that time, with the price of goods and the books he used, he was struggling to get by. He contributed his salary to his home and then asked for it back.Among those three, the one with the best income is the alcohol king. He is a government employee and is also working a second job at a private business in the evenings, so he’s the busiest. However, when you look at him, he always seems to be in a dishevelled state. He’s constantly draining his money on alcohol. But no matter where you look, he never lets go of his cigarette.Since the time the three friends first met, it’s been about fifteen years. During this period, the “alcohol king” has risen to one rank in his job. He has become quite skilled in his work and is very good at speaking to the point where others can be overwhelmed by his words. His ability to judge people is also quite impressive. Although he doesn’t have a degree and is a heavy drinker, his superiors promoted him to a higher position, so he was content with his job. He no longer expected further promotions. His income was steady, and as long as he could drink properly, he was satisfied.What I mean is that the king of alcohol’s friend passed away in 2019. It is known to be from a liver disease. Before he passed, he had completely deteriorated. It’s quite sad. Unfortunately, I couldn’t attend the funeral due to various reasons. Before he passed, I heard news about him from his colleagues. He was constantly drunk and no longer thought about anything. Alcohol took over him, and the king of alcohol no longer had control over his life, ultimately leading to a drastic change in his life.The big friend passed away with age and alcohol, and while reflecting on that, I thought about how in the old days, people used to write at the bottom of letters, like legal texts, that they didn’t want to publish. The wife of the big friend had already passed away for many years before the friend even passed. 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Twenty-Seven Es for Disease Prevention and Control Activities
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The Group Discussion Method in Pedagogy
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A discussion is a situation in which students or students and a teacher converse to share information, ideas, opinions, or work to resolve a problem. But it is not a situation in which a teacher asks a question, a student or students answer it, and then the teacher asks another question. This question-answer-question format is called recitation, and its main purpose is to quiz students to determine what they know or understand.However, a discussion can serve several purposes. One purpose is to review and extend what students have learnt to ensure their mastery of a subject. First, students see, hear or read something. Then, they discuss what they have seen and heard. Among other things, they pay attention to terms and concepts that need explanation, the major ideas presented, and the main message. The next purpose is to have students examine their ideas or opinions. After studying something, students could be asked to share their views about its appropriateness. 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The whole class can engage in a common discussion or it can be divided into small groups that are preferable since these allow more potential for student participation. The composition of a group will also be similar (homogenous) or dissimilar (heterogenous). Participants should be face-to-face. Thus, arranging discussion participants in a circle is most common. On occasions, a panel discussion makes sense. If the interaction is strictly among students, the teacher will have to serve as an observer, recorder and perhaps arbitrator. As a facilitator and moderator, the teacher is to enable students to reflect critically on their experiences, explore different perspectives and consider how knowledge is then rooted in personal experiences, according to circumstances like the purpose of discussion, the maturity and experience of the students.Good discussion leaders believe that students want and need to get involved with purposeful talk; they should be asked to review and use information, explore issues and resolve problems; they are capable of thinking and doing for themselves; and they can be helped to develop via discussion. The leaders can control their talk, get students thinking, serve as skilful facilitators, human relation experts, clarifiers or summarizers and excel at teaching communication skills.When being prepared, good discussions establish the general purpose, set specific learner objectives, consider the readiness of the class and individuals for discussion, decide what role the leader will play, the class grouping, physical arrangements, time allowance and plan the discussion. When being overseen, good discussions get students’ attention, ensure that participants understand and see the value in the purpose or goal, relate the goal and task to previous knowledge and future work, set out the specific questions or statements to be discussed, remind participants of discussion rules, monitor to ensure on-task behaviour, balanced participation and understanding, encourage participants and elevate the level of course. When being closed, the good discussions do so at the most appropriate time rather than at a specific time, summarize progress towards the goal(s), tie new learning to previous knowledge and establish what participants might next want to know or be able to do.As discussion guidelines for students, all students should have an equal opportunity to contribute. They encourage their classmates to join in. They ensure that everyone contributes by waiting his or her turn and taking part about as much as everyone else. They listen carefully to what others say and feel. Also, they work to understand and whenever possible, to support others’ saying and feeling. They like to understand that their knowledge and ideas may not always be right. They stay on target and help others do the same. Finally, they must be gracious and have to avoid attacking or belittling their peers.Discussions are probably attractive to teachers who have personal needs for construction, play, affiliation and student success or to those who may want to avoid giving a presentation for the reason that they do not know the subject well enough. The discussions are advantageous for students who have strong needs for acquisition, affiliation, deference, dominance, exhibition, exposition, play, recognition, sibilance and succorance. They tend to capture and maintain students’ interest, help them develop communication and social-psychological strengths or help them learn through rehearsal. But when they are not well conducted, discussions can be purposeless, rambling, confrontational, wasteful of time, inefficient and unpleasant.So, when on earth should the discussion method be used? Discussion is used when any of its purposes coincide with the goal. Consequently, students are engaged in the discussion when the goal is to review information, examine ideas or opinions, solve problems and improve oral communication skills. When the teacher is more interested in long-term memory, higher-order thinking, motivation, attitude change or moral reasoning, discussion can be used, to best meet students’ social and psychological needs. After all, discussion is given to be effective when students have been mostly inactive listeners, when a more relaxed atmosphere is warranted and when it would be beneficial to enhance student-to-student friendships or affiliation.Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar
Why Should We Read Newspapers Daily?
Why Should We Read Newspapers Daily?
IN TODAY’S fast-paced world, where information is constantly being generated and disseminated through a variety of platforms, reading daily newspapers remains an essential habit for many reasons.Despite the rise of digital media, the value of reading a physical or digital newspaper every day cannot be overstated. It providesnumerous benefits, including staying informed about current events, fostering critical thinking, improving language skills, and keeping readers engaged in global issues.Newspaper readership still holds a great amount of value to citizens in an increasingly digital-dominated landscape. On top of keeping us up-to-date with the latest stories, print and digital newspapers provide readers with many of the benefits associated with reading overall.Reading different newspapers can aid our learning and personal development, increasing language skills, critical thinking and even civic engagement.On the whole, it is considered a timeless hobby that can allow individuals of different ages and backgrounds to feel knowledgeable, inspired and empowered.The biggest advantage of reading a newspaper is that it adds value to you and your personality. It improves your English or any other language in which you are reading it; it enhances your confidence and it makes lives easier as you are updated with the current issues, achievements, facts, discoveries, research, laws, events, ideologies, politics, movements, historical facts and what not? It also improves your memory to a certain extent and increases your reading skills and indirectly writing skills, as well.Newspapers, since their circulation beginning in the early 17th century, have become a part and parcel of our lives. Without them, our mornings seem to be incomplete. For some, it is not just the paper but a vital link to the outside world. Newspaper reading has become an essential part of our life. Reading it every morning, we get to learn new things and amuse ourselves with the engaging information contained within the pages.Reading newspapers daily is a habit that every student should cultivate as there are multitudes of benefits of reading newspapers that help a student become an all-rounder, advance in academics & career, and achieve excellence in life. It becomes their means to update themselves with everything ongoing in their city, state, country, and the world.It is said that knowledge is power and that is exactly what the newspaper brings to your door –information about the current happenings of the world so that you can form your opinion, take your stance, and have the power with you to choose the correct course of action. The following are several persuasive reasons why we should make reading newspapers daily as part of our daily routine.Staying Informed About Current EventsOne of the most significant reasons to read daily newspapers is to stay informed about current events. News stories, whether they pertain to politics, economics, international relations, or social issues, can have a profound impact on our lives. Reading newspapers allows us to keep up with the latest developments, ensuring that we are knowledgeable about what’s happening in our community, country, and the world. Being informed not only helps us make better decisions but also enhances our ability to participate in conversations, debates, and discussions on important topics.Fostering Critical Thinking and AwarenessReading daily newspapers also encourages critical thinking. As you navigate through various articles, you’re exposed to different perspectives, opinions, and analyses of the same event. This encourages you to think critically, question assumptions, and develop your informed viewpoint.For instance, a political article may present multiple angles on a policy issue, and as a reader, you must evaluate the facts, consider the implications, and form an independent opinion. Newspapers often provide in-depth reporting, giving readers a chance to think about the long-term consequences of decisions made by governments or corporations. This cultivates a deeper understanding of complex issues, fostering a more aware and informed citizenry.Improving Language and Communication SkillsAnother often overlooked benefit of reading newspapers is the improvement of language and communication skills. Daily newspapers are filled with rich vocabulary, complex sentence structures, and varied writing styles. By reading these articles regularly, readers can significantly improve their reading comprehension, vocabulary, and writing abilities. Newspapers also offer diverse content, including feature stories, editorials, interviews, and more, allowing readers to gain exposure to various writing techniques and tones. Moreover, frequent exposure to formal, well-structured language can help individuals become more articulate and effective communicators, both in writing and in speech. These enhanced communication skills are invaluable in personal and professional contexts.Access to Diverse Opinions and PerspectivesOne of the unique features of newspapers is their ability to present a wide range of opinions. From editorials and columns to letters to the editor, newspapers often include diverse viewpoints on various issues. This exposure to differing opinions is essential in a democracy, as it broadens our understanding of the world and challenges our preconceived notions. By reading a variety of perspectives, readers can develop empathy and a more balanced view of the issues that shape our society. Furthermore, newspapers often cover local, national, and international news, offering a comprehensive look at global events and trends. This helps readers become more globally aware and appreciative of the diversity of cultures and experiences around the world.Promoting Civic EngagementReading daily newspapers is also an excellent way to engage in civic life. Newspapers play a vital role in informing the public about local government activities, elections, public policies, and social issues. By staying informed, citizens are better equipped to make their voices heard and take action on issues that matter to them. Whether it’s voting in elections, participating in community events, or advocating for social justice, a well-informed citizenry is the backbone of a healthy democracy. Moreover, many newspapers offer opportunities for readers to interact with the content, such as submitting letters to the editor or participating in online discussions. These avenues of engagement allow readers to take an active role in shaping the dialogue on important matters.Establishing a Daily Routine and Mindful Consumption of InformationReading a daily newspaper helps establish a healthy routine of mindful information consumption. In contrast to the instant and often overwhelming nature of social media, newspapers provide a curated selection of news, offering a more structured and balanced approach to staying informed. Newspapers filter out the noise, allowing readers to focus on the most important stories ofthe day. This disciplined approach to consuming news encourages readers to take their time, reflect on the information, and avoid falling into the trap of sensationalism or misinformation. In addition, reading daily newspapers offers a range of benefits that contribute to both personal and societal well-being. It keeps readers informed about current events, encourages critical thinking, enhances language skills, and promotes civic engagement.Furthermore, it exposes readers to diverse viewpoints, making them more empathetic and understanding of global issues. In an era where information is abundant, reading daily newspapers remains an invaluable tool for cultivating an informed, thoughtful, and active person.References- https://wordsrated.com/benefits-of-reading-the-newspaper- https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com- https://jbms.in/10-benefits-of-reading-newspaper-for-studentsSource: The Global New Light of Myanmar
“Fly Free: A Lesson in Courage and Perseverance”
“Fly Free: A Lesson in Courage and Perseverance”
AT OUR house, a cute little bird is kept in a beautiful birdcage. My grandfather, grandmother, nephews, nieces, younger brothers, and sisters regularly feed it grains of rice, and they are very happy to have such a lovely bird at home.One day, my little bird refused to eat anything we offered. I wondered why it was refusing food. Finally, I realized that I wanted to fly outside the cage and meet new bird friends in a new environment.So, I immediately set it free. As soon as I released it, the bird flew quickly and happily into the blue sky. It continued flying toward the southern part of our village, where a large banyan tree stands. The bird stopped flying and rested when it reached the tree. Although the tree and the new green surroundings were unfamiliar, the bird seemed very happy.After a while, a group of young boys with guns (*Laygwa*) approached the tree. I was so worried about my dear bird that I couldn’t stay silent. I ran as fast as I could to the banyan tree where the bird was resting. The entire time, I kept thinking about whether my bird was in danger.When I reached the tree, I was exhausted. But I felt relieved when I saw my bird sitting on a branch. I greeted it with a sweet smile and asked it to come down, but it didn’t respond. It seemed worried that I might capture it again. So, I explained, “I’m not here to take you back. I came to warn you that your enemies are coming to harm you. Please, fly away!”Even after I spoke, the bird didn’t seem to hear me. Still, I didn’t give up because I was worried and didn’t want to regret staying. I continued talking until the bird finally looked at me. I decided to keep speaking until it understood or accepted my words. So, I said: “My dear bird, fly away quickly! They are coming. I’m speaking for your safety, not for my benefit. I won’t be happy if they catch you. Rest is good for health, but too much rest can be harmful.If you’re tired, rest for a while, and then fly toward the beautiful hills and mountains. You can do it. You can fly even in bad situations or in harsh weather. I know flying for hours, days, months, or even years can be exhausting.But remember, every bird faces difficulties and challenges before reaching its oasis or goal. If we give in to boredom or laziness, we’ll never reach a better place in life. Please, take my words to heart.”“My dear bird, you bring joy to me and others. But those boys from the village won’t appreciate your beauty or your sweet voice. To them, you won’t be as valuable as a cup of curry. Believe me, or you’ll regret it. Your life will be safer and more peaceful if you find a place among those who love and value you – like the palace of a king or the homes of the wealthy. So, start flying now, my dear. Don’t be lazy or hesitate to make an effort!”“You know, my love, everyone who cares about you will be proud and delighted when you reach a better stage in life. You’ll also find satisfaction and happiness. Keep flying every second, minute, and hour. You’re not under anyone’s control, and you have countless opportunities to build your life and create your future.You can move to any place you like – where there are beautiful sceneries, big lakes, long rivers, blue oceans, and unique wondersof the world. Don’t forget to fly and make an effort if you want to see and experience these great things. You’ll have the chance to meet new friends, enjoy the best fruits and vegetables, and travel safely wherever you wish.” “Think carefully about your new life, which will improve once you make a true effort. Imagine how your life will change. Of course, your thoughts will evolve, and even the views of those boys from the village will change.They’ll realize you’re more valuable than many cups of curry.” “Moreover, many people will appreciate you because you’ve not only changed yourself but also their perspectives. If you can change your attitude and personality, you’ll be able to transform your surroundings – your place, town, city, country, and even the world – into a better place.”(This essay is dedicated to everyone willing to take the next step towards improving their life.)Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar
An Everlasting Seeker of Knowledge
An Everlasting Seeker of Knowledge
The present era is the age of knowledge. Everything is accomplished through knowledge. Knowledge has the power to create anything. Since childhood, I have earnestly pursued learning and knowledge. Now, as I approach the age of 62, while serving the country, I continue to seek knowledge, attend classes, pursue degrees, and remain a student. To this day, I approach exams not as a burdensome duty but as an enjoyable experience, feeling as though I’m transported into a delightful world for just a few hours.I have earned a Bachelor’s in Science, an honour’s degree, a Master’s degree, and advanced degrees in Chemistry. Knowledge is like a teacher that is passed down. I strive to both earn this heritage of knowledge worthily and to pass it along to others with dedication.As the saying goes, “There is no light equal to knowledge.” In human life, knowledge is extremely important. Only by becoming knowledgeable can one be a good person and clearly distinguish between right and wrong, good and bad, as well as think critically and develop thoughtful discernment.After completing my doctorate, I attended various courses and earned diplomas both domestically and abroad. While serving in my current role, I successfully completed an online course in Russian (Basic Level I & II) from the University of Foreign Languages. Additionally, I won first-place honours in Postgraduate Diplomas in Law (PGDL), Tourism (PGDGT), and Business (PGDB) from the Yangon Distance Education Programme.Without considering age, I continue to immerse myself in lifelong learning. As our great nation evolves and advances, all scholars will find joy in meeting on this online platform for learning.With this article, I pay heartfelt respect to my parents and all my teachers, treasuring their legacy of knowledge with deep gratitude and reverence.Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar
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