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What types of topics are covered at the MFI program?
The MFI program’s core curriculum focuses on sustainable livelihoods. The curriculum includes the following core subjects:
After a two-week orientation session, students begin classes in early July with approx. 6 hrs of each subject per week.
What is a typical schedule like for an MFI Student?
Monday – Friday
7:00 Wake Up
7:30 Breakfast
8:00 English Class
9:00-11:30 Block 1: Agricultural Skills, Environment and/or Economics & Food Security
11:30-1:00 Lunch & Free Time
1:00-2:00 English Class
2:00-5:00 Block 2: Technology, Video Documentation and/or Community Development
5:00-7:00 Free Time / Group Work on Farm
7:00-9:00 Homework Session or Film Night
10:00 Lights Out
Saturday-Sunday: Guest Workshops and Practical Courses
What types of skills are covered in the curriculum? Example of skills covered:
Who teaches the courses at MFI program?
Each year, the MFI School has a talented staff of Burmese and foreign trainers and guest speakers/lecturers for its program. Most of the instruction at the MFI School is in English, with some Burmese translation. All applicants must be proficient in English (reading/writing/speaking).
In 2011, the MFI School had eight core trainers in various topics including sustainable livelihoods, agriculture, environment, video documentation, renewable energy, computer skills, community organizing, English language, food security and economics.
In 2012, the MFI School expects an equally diverse group of trainers and topics to be covered for its training program.
How many students attend the MFI School?
In 2012, there will be 20 students who attend the MFI School. NEED-Burma works to ensure that each year there is a diverse group of ethnicities, religions and languages represented at the MFI School.
What are the costs/fees for the program?
The MFI School charges no fees for its training program, thanks to the generous contributions of its donors. All lodging, food and accommodation are provided to students free of charge, along with some basic school supplies (pens, notebooks, rulers, etc.).
NEED-Burma will not cover the cost of obtaining a passport, but will reimburse the costs of obtaining a visa and transportation to/from MFI School. The student and his/her organization must arrange and obtain a passport in advance of the application deadline.
Transportation to/from the MFI School will also be reimbursed to students.
Is there a stipend provided for students?
A small, modest stipend will be provided to each MFI student. Students can use this stipend to pay for miscellaneous items and basic toiletries (shampoo, toothpaste, etc.) that NEED-Burma does not provide.
When is the deadline for the MFI application?
The final deadline for the 2012 MFI Application will be Friday, Jan. 27, 2012. All applications should be sent via email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Applications can also be mailed to the following address:
NEED-Burma (Sasitorn)
P.O. Box 159
Mae Ping Post Office Chiang Mai 50301 THAILAND
Who should write the recommendation letter? Can it be written in Burmese?
The recommendation letter should be completed using the NEED-Burma form that is provided with the 2012 MFI School application. The letter can be written in Burmese or English.
The recommendation letter can be written by a current or former teacher, advisor, mentor, role model, colleague or leader of the applicant’s organization. All recommendation forms should be submitted confidentially to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or placed in a sealed envelope to be mailed with the application.
The letter should not be written by someone who is a family member or close friend.
How many references are required?
At least two references (with email and phone number) should be provided on the application form. Please list the relationship of each reference to the applicant.
What are the language requirements for the program?
Most classes at the MFI School will be conducted in English. Some Burmese translation will be provided for classes and workshops, but this is not guaranteed.
In 2012, NEED-Burma requires that all MFI applicants complete a basic written and oral English examination. The examination will take place during the interview (in February or March) and will be administered by a NEED-Burma staff member or MFI alumna.
How will I know if I am accepted to the MFI program?
NEED-Burma will send acceptance letters via email the first week of April 2012. Accepted candidates must confirm their participation in the MFI program by Friday, April 13, 2012.
After Friday, April 13, 2012, NEED-Burma will contact those candidates placed on its waiting list to notify them if there is space available
How much formal education or work experience do I need?
NEED-Burma does not require applicants to have completed higher formal education; however, NEED-Burma does place a high value on work or volunteer experience in the local community. MFI courses are rigorous and students need to have strong oral, writing and reading skills in English and Burmese.
Applicants to the MFI School should have a background or work experience in agriculture, and have at least 1 year work or volunteer experience in community or economic development.
What is the safety and security situation like at NEED?
NEED-Burma’s MFI School is located in a small village outside of Chiang Mai, Thailand. The location of the school is a safe and secure place for all MFI students.
What is the lodging and accommodation like at NEED?
NEED-Burma has two lodging facilities for its students, along with separate showers and bathrooms for males and females. Please take a look at our photo gallery on our website for a better look: www.need-burma.org.
What types of food will I eat while at NEED?
NEED-Burma provides curry and rice to students during the week, using organic vegetables, fish and legumes grown at the model farm. Students are expected to cook together on the weekends. If you have any dietary restrictions, please include this as an additional note in your application.
Who should I contact to receive more information?
Please contact NEED-Burma at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information. You can also contact our MFI Alumni Coordinator at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
After the MFI program:
What are the requirements and expectations after the program?
All MFI Students will design a project and complete a written proposal for a small-scale agriculture or environmental project to be implemented in their local communities after completion of the program. NEED-Burma will provide technical assistance and assist the student in trying to find outside funding to support their projects.
NEED-Burma asks that all of its students remain engaged after completion of the program and become a part of the MFI Alumni Network. Please contact our MFI Alumni Coordinator at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information.
