A month long basic military training programme was wrapped up by the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) battalions 201 and 101 during the weekend.

The closing ceremony was held on Saturday morning in the KNU controlled area. Saw Pwe Htaw, headmaster of the basic military training school spoke at length about the aim behind imparting this kind of military training.

"The aim of the military training is to understand the concept of the military and have basic political knowledge. A soldier must possess such knowledge. If a soldier does not have military training, it's like the soldier killing himself in battle. Therefore, the need for such training."

The military training was imparted on May 24. There were 56 solders participating. The basic military training entailed the use of guns and military equipments, guerrilla tactics, basic political concept and military discipline, Saw Pwe Htaw said.

Saw El Kabo, a trainee aged 22, said “the knowledge acquired will be very useful when I go to the front line. I have acquired knowledge of how to deal with people. I am proud at being able to attend the training.

Likewise, Mann Shar Thara (38) said "I will use the military knowledge for Karen revolution until we succeed."

The KNU, an ethnic armed group, has struggled for equal rights and self determination since 1949. It has revolted against successive military dictatorships in Burma. During the over 60 years, KNU has successfully imparted basic military training, officer training and basic political training.