Educational development in Burma is discussed as part of a series surveying UNESCO's involvement in educational cooperation with developing nations. Several themes recur throughout the monograph--Burma's insistence on retaining independence in matters of educational policy, stress on developing an educational system cognizant with cultural values of Southeast Asia, and recognition that aid, grants, and loans from foreign nations and international organizations are necessary. Major achievements and problems in education since Burma's independence in 1948 are discussed. Achievements include introduction of computerization, expansion of technical and vocational programs, establishment of specialized institutions and laboratories, and extension of basic education programs. Problems include inadequate supplies, unclear priorities, relatively unimportant role of education within the Burmese government's economic development plans, uneven quality of experts sent by international organizations, and inadequate training of Burmese personnel to take over projects when experts leave the country. Several areas are identified as particularly promising fields for future international cooperation. These include development of curriculum in technical, agricultural, and vocational education; support for professional institutes; training of specialists related to social needs; promotion of educational research; and development of documentation and library networks. (DB)