University Privileges Granted to Than Shwe’s Grandson

Denied a university place in Singapore, the pampered grandson of Burma’s junta leader Snr-Gen Than Shwe is having an easier time pursuing his studies at Rangoon’s Technological University.

Nay Shwe Thway Aung

Nay Shwe Thway Aung—aka Pho La Pyeit—has reportedly been granted special privileges that include hand-picked teachers, security guards and a special classroom shared with 17 other favored students.

This week, municipal workers cleared the road he follows to university, destroying roadside stands selling water.

The football-loving youngster, a favorite grandson of Than Shwe, enrolled at the Technological University last month.

In April 2007, during a visit by Than Shwe and members of his family to Maymyo a helicopter was reportedly dispatched to Rangoon on a special mission to buy roast duck for Nay Shwe Thway Aung.

Reports of his pampered lifestyle circulated among Burmese students in Singapore, fuelling fears at home that he could be exposed to abuse and even attack if he attended university there.