Myanmar history is viewed differently by different people and there are many perspectives and interpretations of Myanmar history. The perspectives and interpretations of Myanmar scholars, however, are not very well known as they have been published mostly in Myanmar language. SEAMEO CHAT has a role in putting together a picture of Myanmar's past, its development, and its mosaic of cultures and traditions, especially their strengths and weaknesses and ability to adapt in changing circumstances, as seen from the perspectives of the present community of scholars in the country.
This year Myanmar History from Myanmar Perspectives, the prominent programme of SEAMEO CHAT which has been carried out annually since 2002, was conducted from 11 to 20 August.
The programme consisted of three-day lectures and discussions at the Centre, and a seven-day trip to the historical sites of Bago, Mandalay and Bagan. The lecture topics given at the Centre included Overview of Myanmar History, Bagan Buddhism and Bagan Art and Architecture, Mandalay: The Court and the City, Hanthawaddy: Maritime Trade and Land Empire, Ancient Cities in Myanmar and Source Materials of Myanmar History.
Seven participants from Southeast Asia countries were pleased to attend the comprehensive lectures, to have a chance to go and study the historical sites, and to share the knowledge and experiences. It can be said that the programme meets the Centre's aim of improving the quality of education in the field of history and tradition.