After decades of isolation Myanmar is becoming ever more open. The enduring and severe separation in the field of politics, economy and culture, imposed by the military dictatorship resulted in  precious little being known of Myanmar in recent decades. The Nobel Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi is the leader of the opposition. Her primary goal is the non-violent re-introduction of human rights and democracy. There are certainly some visible sparks of democracy which have still to grow into a fire. Decades of stagnation and political isolation forecast widespread poverty.  However, the political system failed to deter the profound spirituality of the people.  Buddhism, in particular, continues to influence the citizens of Myanmar. The many stupas, pagoda, temples and images of the Buddha continue to enjoy the worship of the population. 

Already street dress is an attractive blend of the exotic. Men wear long plaid wrap-over skirts (the so-called Lontschi) while those of the women are of colourful flowery patterns. Early in the morning more than 500,000 buddhist monks walk in silence, in their dark red robes, carrying their mendicant bowls, going from house to house. Arrayed along the streets, a riot of multi-coloured, and enticing dishes are sizzling away. It is a fascinating and mysterious country whose residents are courteous and welcoming.

Historical review: 150 years ago the French missionary, La Campe set up a school in the village of Kanazogo – situated in the south of Myanmar in the Irrawaddy Delta. He believed it was important for people to grow first in knowledge and then in Christian belief. His work was continued until 1962, when all foreigners were expelled, followed by the nationalization of the schools. After the departure of the missionaries, the local church carried on educating the children. They have had to do that with just a little experience and knowledge and in spite of governmental restrictions.

Todays situation: In the village of Kanazogo there are over 800 families. 95% of which are catholics, with the rest of Buddhist or Muslim belief. The population lives from rice cultivation and fishing. Kanazogo is the only village from far and wide that boasts both a primary and a secondary school. There is also a doctor for medical treatment.