Congratulations to 2012's EarthRights School Burma graduates! Our students have now joined the ranks of the ERS alumni and are now returning to Burma to apply what they've learned in their work at home.

Many of the subjects taught at ERSB were new to the students. Despite the changes in Burma, it is still very difficult to learn about human rights, international law and other sensitive topics. Thum Aye, from Shan State, said, ""We gained a lot. Before we didn't know about the banking system, or how foreign investment is important for our country. At the same time, we have to think about how to defend our communities."

The knowledge they have gained from these classes will be vital to the future of Burma. The alumni will go on to pass this knowledge to their communities, their government and other activists. "When I go home, I will have meetings with Parliament, senators and activists in the foreign investment area. I will conduct a lot of trainings with my organization." said Paing Zaw Zaw, from Rangoon.

This year's students came from different ethnicities from all across Burma. Their differences only served to strengthen their ties, teaching them to work together and embrace their country's diversity. Ko Phyo, of the ethnic Burmese majority, said, "Here we come from different ethnicities and different regions [...] I've learned from everyone. I'm sure that the things I learned here will be applied in my future work."