FED Unified Learning Centre
Empowering migrant students through educationPrivate Japanese donor Implementing partners:
Foundation for Education and Development
Location:
Takua Pa, Thailand
Project duration:
Ongoing support since 2011
Sustainable Development Goals:
4, 10, 17
Background
Across southern Thailand, tens of thousands of children from Myanmar live without access to formal education. While Thailand has made strides in extending education rights to all children, practical barriers such as language, legal status, distance, and poverty prevent many migrant families from enrolling their children in Thai schools. Migrant Learning Centres (MLCs) are a vital solution, providing safe, community-based education tailored to the needs of migrant children.
The challenge
Many existing MLCs operate in inadequate facilities – temporary shelters with poor ventilation, limited sanitation, and insufficient space for learning and play. These conditions not only affect health and safety but also hinder the quality of education and attendance rates.
Our approach
The Foundation for Education and Development’s (FED) Unified Learning Centre (ULC) in Khao Lak was constructed to provide essential education for children of Burmese migrant workers who are unable to access Thailand’s formal school system.
Over the years, demand for migrant education has increased so further support from donors has enabled the construction of new classrooms and improved infrastructure to accommodate more students, enhance learning conditions, and continue providing quality education to Thailand’s migrant communities.
Impact
20
classrooms built for Kindergarten-Grade 12
500+
students per year with access to education
GED
program and integration into Thai schools
Facilities
Computer room, library, kitchen, school health clinic & offices
Lessons learnt
Ongoing instability in Myanmar continues to drive families to migrate to southern Thailand, increasing demand for accessible education for their children. Well-equipped MLCs boost attendance and engagement and integrating vocational programs like the FED Café Lab enhances skills and employability for young people.
“By supporting migrant learning centres, we bridge the education gap for thousands of children who would otherwise be excluded from formal schooling, equipping them with the skills and confidence to build independent, secure futures.”
– Lotti Fraser, Dana Asia Director of Programs
