Our School's History 

Karenni Leadership College (KnLC) was established in 2008 in Karenni Refugee Camp 2, located in Ban Mae Surin, Mae Hong Son Province, Thailand. The camp is home to approximately 3,000 predominantly ethnic Karenni refugees from Burma, displaced due to ongoing conflict between the Burmese military junta (SPDC) and the Karenni National Progressive Party (KNPP), a key political organization resisting military rule. 

Humanitarian assistance, including basic education and healthcare, has been extended to the refugees through international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) and local community efforts. However, educational support remains limited, with formal schooling available only up to grade 10. Beyond this level, students previously had to travel to Karenni Camp 1 to access post-secondary education, facing significant security risks and mobility restrictions. 

Since 2000, around 60 students annually from Camp 2 have sought higher education in Camp 1 through five post-10 programs. While limited legal travel permissions were granted by the Mae Hong Son Governor in recent years, a December 2007 security incident resulted in stricter refugee movement policies, completely barring Camp 2 students from continuing their studies in Camp 1. This restriction affected future generations, preventing aspiring students from advancing their education. 

Recognizing this urgent need, Karenni youth activists, community leaders, and local organizations convened to create a sustainable solution. In January 2008, their efforts led to the formation of Karenni Leadership College (KnLC), providing a local space for post-10 education within Karenni Camp 2. Supported by community-based organizations and dedicated individuals, KnLC aims to empower Karenni youth through leadership-focused education, ensuring accessibility, security, and continuity in higher learning. 

Through KnLC, young refugees are allowed to build their knowledge and skills, preparing them to become future leaders who will advocate for their communities and navigate the challenges faced by displaced Karenni people.