Zomi Education Center

Education for Refugee Children and Adults

Building futures through learning opportunities

Our Mission

The Zomi Education Center is dedicated to providing quality education to refugee children and adults who lack access to Malaysia's formal education system. We believe that education is a fundamental right and a pathway to a better future, regardless of one's legal status or circumstances.

In Malaysia, refugee children face significant barriers to accessing formal education. Our center aims to bridge this gap by offering structured educational programs that develop essential knowledge and skills, preserve cultural identity, and prepare students for future opportunities.

Center History

The Zomi Education Center was established in 2012 in response to the growing need for educational opportunities within the Zomi refugee community. What began as a small classroom with 30 students has grown into a comprehensive learning center serving over 250 students of various ages.

Over the years, we have expanded our curriculum, improved our facilities, and developed partnerships with educational organizations to enhance the quality of our programs. Our teachers include both qualified professionals and community members with relevant experience and a passion for education.

Zomi Education Center Classroom

Students learning at the Zomi Education Center

250+
Students enrolled
15
Dedicated teachers
11
Years of operation

Our Educational Programs

Comprehensive learning opportunities for different ages and needs

Primary Education

A structured program for children aged 6-12, covering core subjects including mathematics, science, languages (Zomi, English, and Malay), and social studies. Our curriculum is aligned with international standards while incorporating cultural elements.

  • Core academic subjects
  • Age-appropriate classes
  • Cultural integration
  • Basic computer skills

Secondary Education

Advanced learning for teenagers aged 13-17, focused on preparing students for further education or vocational training. The program includes more advanced subject matter and practical skills development.

  • Advanced academics
  • Critical thinking skills
  • Career guidance
  • Digital literacy

Language Classes

Dedicated language instruction for children and adults, focusing on English and Malay proficiency to facilitate integration, employment, and daily life in Malaysia. We also offer Zomi language classes to preserve cultural heritage.

  • English language instruction
  • Malay language classes
  • Zomi language preservation
  • Conversational practice

Vocational Skills

Practical training programs for older students and adults, focusing on employable skills such as computer literacy, handicrafts, cooking, and basic entrepreneurship to enhance livelihood opportunities.

  • Computer skills training
  • Handicraft training
  • Cooking and food preparation
  • Basic business skills

Arts & Culture

Programs focused on preserving and celebrating Zomi cultural heritage through music, dance, arts, and traditional crafts. These activities foster cultural identity and community bonds among refugee children.

  • Traditional music and dance
  • Arts and crafts
  • Cultural celebrations
  • Traditional storytelling

Teacher Training

Capacity building programs for refugee teachers and education volunteers, providing pedagogical skills, classroom management techniques, and curriculum development training to enhance teaching quality.

  • Teaching methodologies
  • Classroom management
  • Curriculum development
  • Educational technology

Our Learning Facilities

Creating an effective educational environment

Education Center Classrooms

Classrooms

Our center features 8 dedicated classrooms designed to accommodate different age groups and learning activities. Each classroom is equipped with basic educational resources, whiteboards, and seating arrangements that facilitate interactive learning.

Education Center Library

Library

Our small but growing library contains over 1,000 books in multiple languages, providing reading materials for different ages and interests. The library also serves as a quiet study space for students working on assignments or exam preparation.

Education Center Computer Lab

Computer Lab

The computer lab features 15 workstations where students can develop digital literacy skills, conduct research, and complete assignments. The lab is used for dedicated computer classes as well as integrated into other subject areas.

Education Center Activity Hall

Activity Hall

Our multipurpose activity hall hosts physical education classes, cultural events, performances, and community gatherings. The space provides room for active learning, group activities, and celebrations of student achievements.

Our Educational Approach

Principles that guide our teaching and learning

The Zomi Education Center has developed a unique educational approach that addresses the specific needs of refugee learners while maintaining high academic standards. Our approach balances academic knowledge with practical skills, cultural relevance with global perspectives, and structured learning with creative expression.

Holistic Development

We focus on developing the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically. Our curriculum addresses academic needs while also nurturing creativity, critical thinking, social skills, and emotional intelligence.

Practical Application

We emphasize the practical application of knowledge through project-based learning, real-world problem solving, and hands-on activities. This approach helps students connect theoretical knowledge with everyday life and future opportunities.

Cultural Integration

Our curriculum integrates Zomi cultural elements with global perspectives, helping students maintain their cultural identity while developing the knowledge and skills needed to navigate diverse settings.

Community Involvement

We actively involve parents and community members in the educational process, recognizing that learning extends beyond the classroom and that family support is crucial for student success.

Pathway-Oriented

Our programs are designed with future pathways in mind, whether that's further education, vocational training, employment, or eventual resettlement. We prepare students for transitions and ongoing learning.

Interactive learning at the Education Center

"Education is not just about academics—it's about building resilience, preserving identity, and creating hope for a better future, especially for children who have experienced displacement."

- Lian Mang, Education Coordinator

Student Success Stories

Real journeys of achievement through education

From Refugee Child to University Student

"I was 10 years old when I arrived in Malaysia with my family. We had fled Myanmar with nothing, and I had missed two years of school. The Zomi Education Center welcomed me despite my educational gaps and language barriers. The teachers patiently helped me catch up, learn English and Malay, and develop my academic skills. After six years at the center, I was able to qualify for a scholarship program and am now studying computer science at a college in Kuala Lumpur—something I never imagined possible when we first arrived as refugees."

Thang, University Student

Thang

Former student, now university scholar

Preserving Culture Through Education

"Growing up in Malaysia as a refugee child, I was at risk of losing connection to my Zomi heritage. The Education Center didn't just teach me academics—it helped me maintain my language, learn about our history, and participate in cultural activities. This balanced education gave me confidence in my identity while preparing me for life in Malaysia. Today, I work as a teacher at the same center, helping a new generation of refugee children maintain this important balance between heritage and adaptation. I see the impact of cultural education every day in our students' sense of pride and belonging."

Esther, Now a Teacher

Esther

Former student, now a teacher at the center

Adult Education Opening Doors

"I arrived in Malaysia in my 30s, unable to speak English or Malay and with limited employment options. The adult education classes at the Zomi Education Center transformed my situation. I learned both languages, gained computer skills, and developed confidence in my abilities. The vocational training in cooking led me to a job at a local restaurant, where I've been working for three years now. The center also helped me navigate daily life in Malaysia, from using public transportation to understanding local customs. Education hasn't just improved my livelihood—it's given me independence and dignity."

Mary, Adult Education Success

Mary

Adult education program graduate

Educational Challenges & Solutions

Addressing the obstacles to refugee education

Limited Access to Formal Education

Refugee children in Malaysia lack access to the formal education system, creating a significant educational gap and limiting future opportunities.

Our Solution:

We provide structured educational programs aligned with international standards, creating an alternative pathway for learning and development. We also advocate for greater educational access for refugees.

Language Barriers

Many refugee students arrive speaking only Zomi dialects, making it difficult to adapt to learning in new languages and integrate into Malaysian society.

Our Solution:

We implement multilingual education approaches, starting with mother-tongue instruction while gradually introducing English and Malay. Our dedicated language classes provide intensive support for language acquisition.

Limited Resources

Operating a comprehensive education center with limited funding creates challenges in providing adequate facilities, materials, and teacher compensation.

Our Solution:

We develop partnerships with educational organizations, seek donations of books and supplies, and implement creative resource-sharing approaches. We also train community volunteers to support professional teachers.

Educational Gaps

Many students have experienced interrupted education due to displacement, creating significant learning gaps and varying educational levels within the same age group.

Our Solution:

We implement individualized learning approaches, bridging programs, and accelerated learning methods to help students catch up. We group students by learning level rather than strictly by age when needed.

Our Educational Partners

Collaborations that enhance our educational programs

The Zomi Education Center collaborates with various educational organizations, institutions, and volunteers to enhance the quality and reach of our programs. These partnerships bring additional resources, expertise, and opportunities to our students.

UNICEF Logo

UNICEF Malaysia

Supporting our educational programs with learning materials and teacher training.

UNHCR Logo

UNHCR Education Unit

Providing technical support and coordinating educational opportunities for refugee children.

Teach for Malaysia Logo

Teach for Malaysia

Volunteer teachers and educational methodologies to enhance our teaching capacity.

University of Malaya Logo

Local Universities

Student volunteers, educational resources, and occasional scholarship opportunities.

"Our partners play a crucial role in expanding what we can offer our students. From teacher training to learning materials to scholarship opportunities, these collaborations help bridge the resource gap and connect our center to broader educational networks."

- Lian Mang, Education Coordinator

Join Our Education Team

The Zomi Education Center is always looking for dedicated volunteers with teaching experience, subject expertise, or a passion for education. Whether you can commit to regular teaching hours or occasional support, your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of refugee students.

We Need:

  • Teachers for various subjects and age groups
  • English and Malay language instructors
  • Computer skills trainers
  • Library and resource development support
Learn About Volunteering Contact Us Today

Contact Our Education Center

Reach out for information about programs or enrollment

Phone

(603) 2142 6659 ext. 5

For enrollment inquiries and information

Email

education@zam.org.my

For program details and general questions

Visit Us

155 (A), 1st Floor, Jalan Maharajalela
50150 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

School hours: Monday-Friday
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Department Head

Lian Mang

Education Coordinator

Enrollment Information

The Zomi Education Center accepts new students throughout the year, with main enrollment periods in January and July. To enroll a student, please visit our office or contact us by phone or email. Basic documentation about the student is required, but we understand the limitations refugees face and will work with families to accommodate their situation.

Contact for Enrollment

Support Refugee Education

Join us in providing educational opportunities to Zomi refugee children and adults in Malaysia.

Get Involved Today