Federalism and Democracy
The IPSJ implements the Study Group (Online) Program to strengthen political knowledge and civic engagement among Myanmar’s youth, with a focus on federalism and democracy. The program brings together alumni of IPSJ’s political training initiatives to form small study groups that promote collective learning and civic action. Youth groups of approximately 10 members participate in guided reading clubs using selected texts, with intellectual input from prominent scholars Naing Oo and Maung Kyi Thit.
Since May 2025, the program has expanded from an exclusively online format to include community-based, in-person reading clubs, increasing accessibility and grassroots engagement. Led by IPSJ alumni, these localized book clubs aim to enhance public political awareness, provide alternative learning spaces for youth affected by educational disruptions, and promote democratic dialogue through structured literary discussions.
IPSJ organized community-based book clubs in seven townships. Each club conducted up to six sessions, for a total of 49 sessions across all locations. In parallel, IPSJ supported two monthly online book clubs in Federal Schools, serving high school students (Grades 10–12) through age-appropriate readings on literature, history, global affairs, and social sciences.
| Sr. | Event | Location | Session | Remarks |
| 1. | In-person localized book clubs: | 7 | 37 (75 persons) | |
| 2. | Online reading sessions through the Federal School platform (Red Bridge High School, Magway Federal School) | 2 | 12 (47 persons) | |
| 9 | 49 |
This hybrid approach enabled participation despite logistical and security challenges in certain areas. The localized book clubs read and discussed the following books:
Facilitators
The facilitators leading the localized book clubs are alumni of IPSJ’s political training programs and book clubs. These facilitators have either taught or studied courses in politics, human rights, gender, and federalism, and are passionate about reading.
Participants
(i). On-the-Ground Reading Club
These localized book clubs primarily bring together teachers, university and high school students involved in the CDM across various regions, as well as local youth and members engaged in revolutionary activities (such as local governance and administration).
(ii). Teachers and students from Federal Schools
Participants are organized based on the facilitators’ local connections and proximity. Depending on security conditions, each reading club is limited to 5–10 participants, with 1–2 facilitators per session.
