Ko Kyaw Wai Phyo: A Voice for Change for the Sagaing Region

Born in 1987 in Monywa, Sagaing Region, Ko Kyaw Wai Phyo stands as a beacon of hope and resilience in the ongoing struggle for federal democracy in Myanmar. A passionate educator, musician, and activist, he currently serves as the vice chairman of the Sagaing Forum , where he advocates for the establishment of a Sagaing Federal Unit.

In 2019, Ko Kyaw was a respected lecturer at Monywa Economic University, teaching Myanmar Major while pursuing his PhD. His life was marked by a smooth trajectory, supported by a strong focus on education and a passion for Myanmar Literature. In addition to his educational efforts, Ko Kyaw is the co-founder of The Villager Band, in 2009 with friends and produced 2 albums that channeled his love for music and Myanmar literature. His life followed a steady academic and creative path—until the military coup on February 1, 2021. 

The coup triggered immediate resistance among educators nationwide, fueling the launch of the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM). Ko Kyaw joined the movement. Faced with persecution under Section 505 of the penal code, Ko Kyaw left his home to liberated areas, regions that have gained a degree of autonomy or are controlled by ethnic armed organizations (EAOs), where he launched a pilot project for Federal Democracy education aimed at schoolchildren. Leveraging his academic expertise, he transformed his teaching into a tool for resistance against authoritarianism, nurturing the next generation of leaders.

Even as the revolution unfolds, the band continues to create songs that echo the struggles and aspirations of their generation. He sees music as an extension of his activism, blending his poetic talent with a commitment to resistance. Yet, the trauma of witnessing friends and loved ones disappear in the chaos weighs heavily on him. He reflects "When bombs fall, I see people die right before my eyes. These experiences freeze my musical ideas, but I strive to maintain mental stability through my creativity."

However, Ko Kyaw's artistic endeavors still persists, he also writes scripts for television programs, including infotainment shows for exiled media. He participates in podcasts, using every medium available to amplify the voices of those affected by the ongoing crisis.

Despite ongoing challenges, particularly with mobility, security, and limited resources—Ko Kyaw remains committed to contributing wherever he can.

Reflecting on the revolutionary movement, he emphasizes: "This fight is not against individuals but against entrenched systems that need dismantling. It won't end with us; it may take three generations to achieve the freedom and improved nation we desire. Yet, we must remain hopeful and resilient, sowing the seeds of knowledge for future generations to reap the benefits."

Ko Kyaw Wai Phyo embodies the spirit of resistance through education, art, and activism to illuminate the path toward a federal democratic future for Myanmar.