“I had applied to the Maungdaw District Immigration Office with all necessary documents for a travel permit to join the university last week,” the student said.

“All applications will be sent to Naypyidaw, as we need confirmation before we can issue any permits,” said an immigration officer.
 


“Last year, the office immediately issued travel permits after people applied for them, but this year the immigration office is giving more difficulties,” said the parent of a student who went to the office to apply for a permit on behalf of his son.



“This year, the authorities sent major subject selection papers and invitations separately – one by post, and another one directly to the concerned block/village administration officers. However, some students got invitation letters only, while others only received major subject selection papers.”



“Some of the students are waiting for the missing documents, which the immigration office needs to issue the permits.”



U Zaw Htun, an education officer, is collecting 1,000 kyat for stamping and affixing his signature on documents, while U Tha Hla Htun, the headmaster of a state high school, is collecting 2,000 kyat for each certificate of matriculation, said a school teacher from Maungdaw.



“The students who applied for medical or other professional courses with qualifications did not get any appointment letters to join the university. The universities are outside of Arakan State.”



U Janhangir, alias U Aung Myo Min, a member of the region and state parliament, had asked the Arakan State parliament about the travel possibilities for students who qualify for medical or other professional courses outside of Arakan State. The parliament replied that all such cases would have to be submitted to officials in Naypyidaw.

U Zahidrul Rahaman, alias U Htay Win, a member of the National Parliament, was stopped by an immigration officer at Buthidaung jetty when he attempted to return to Rangoon. Later, he was allowed to travel to Rangoon, according to a trader from Buthidaung.