SECTION VI – OPERATIONAL POLICIES
Chapter 24 – Educational and Programmatic Activities
CHAPTER 24 – EDUCATIONAL AND PROGRAMMATIC ACTIVITIES
1. General Provisions
24.1 Purpose of this Chapter
This Chapter regulates HGT’s educational, research and outreach activities, to ensure that:
a) teaching and programmes are doctrinally sound and ethically delivered;
b) activities promote peace, social harmony and responsible heritage care; and
c) all programmes respect legal, safeguarding and quality standards.
24.2 Foundations
This Chapter is guided by:
a) Vinaya and Buddhist teachings on the duties and limits of teachers, respect for learners and non-exploitation;
b) principles of UNESCO Education 2030 and related frameworks for education for peace, global citizenship and sustainable development;
c) applicable Myanmar laws and regulations on education, including the Basic Education Law and other relevant provisions; and
d) HGT’s core values, governance and safeguarding principles in earlier Sections.
24.3 Scope
a) This Chapter applies to all structured educational and programmatic activities run or sponsored by HGT, including:
i. Dhamma and meditation courses;
ii. peace and conflict transformation training;
iii. heritage and museum education;
iv. public lectures, seminars and retreats;
v. youth and children’s programmes; and
vi. outreach or community projects framed as learning activities.
b) It also applies to research activities carried out under HGT auspices and related intellectual property (IP).
2. Educational Vision and Principles
24.4 Educational Vision
HGT’s educational work seeks to:
a) deepen understanding and practice of the Dhamma in a way that supports wisdom, compassion and non-violence;
b) build skills for peaceful coexistence, dialogue and conflict transformation;
c) foster respect and care for cultural and natural heritage; and
d) support the SDGs, especially quality education (SDG 4), peaceful societies (SDG 16) and sustainable communities (SDG 11).
24.5 Core Educational Principles
HGT shall ensure that:
a) teaching is accurate, honest and non-sectarian, within the Theravāda framework;
b) methods respect the dignity, safety and diversity of learners;
c) programmes are designed with attention to local context and social harmony; and
d) religious, peace and heritage education reinforce each other rather than compete.
3. Curriculum and Programme Standards
24.6 Curriculum Framework
a) HGT shall develop a curriculum framework covering key domains:
i. Dhamma and Vinaya education (fundamental teachings, ethics, meditation);
ii. peace and conflict education (non-violence, dialogue, structural and cultural violence, reconciliation);
iii. heritage and relic education (history, conservation, ethical custodianship); and
iv. citizenship and responsibilities (rights, duties, SDGs, diversity and inclusion).
b) The framework shall be approved by the relevant academic or programme body and endorsed by the Saṅgha Advisory Council where doctrinal issues arise.
24.7 Course and Programme Design
a) Each course or programme shall have:
i. clear learning objectives;
ii. defined target groups and prerequisites (where relevant);
iii. an outline of topics and methods;
iv. assessment or feedback mechanisms (if applicable); and
v. identification of safeguarding and inclusion needs.
b) Programmes that may affect children, vulnerable adults, or complex community relations shall include a short risk and safeguarding assessment.
24.8 Content Standards
a) Dhamma-related content shall be consistent with recognised Theravāda sources and, where disagreements exist, presented respectfully and clearly.
b) Peace and heritage content shall draw on credible scholarship and practice, avoiding incitement, prejudice or glorification of violence.
c) Materials shall, where possible, avoid stereotypes and respect gender and cultural equality.
24.9 Approval of New Programmes
a) New or substantially revised programmes must be approved through an internal process that includes:
i. subject-matter review (Dhamma/peace/heritage expertise);
ii. safeguarding review (for children and vulnerable groups); and
iii. financial and logistical feasibility checks.
b) Final approval levels shall be defined by internal SOPs (e.g. Department Head, Academic Committee, ED).
4. Roles, Responsibilities and Teacher Conduct
24.10 Roles in Educational Activities
Key roles include:
a) Programme Director/Coordinator – responsible for overall design, quality and compliance;
b) Teachers/Trainers – deliver content and guide learning;
c) Teaching Assistants/Facilitators – support group work and exercises;
d) Support Staff and Volunteers – logistics, registration, hospitality, safety support.
24.11 Duties of Teachers and Trainers
Teachers and trainers shall:
a) uphold HGT’s ethical code, Vinaya-based expectations and H96 custodian values;
b) prepare adequately and teach within their competence;
c) respect learners’ dignity, questions and cultural backgrounds;
d) maintain appropriate professional boundaries (no exploitation, harassment or abuse of learners); and
e) avoid using the teacher role for personal gain, manipulation or partisan political influence.
24.12 Limits on Teacher Conduct
a) Teachers shall not:
i. demand gifts or favours from students;
ii. humiliate or intimidate learners;
iii. make claims of miraculous powers in exchange for donations; or
iv. engage in romantic or exploitative relationships with learners where there is a power imbalance or safeguarding risk.
b) Violations shall be addressed through HR, safeguarding and complaints procedures.
5. Research Ethics and Intellectual Property
24.13 Research Activities Covered
a) This section applies to research and documentation carried out under HGT auspices, including:
i. academic studies;
ii. surveys and interviews;
iii. heritage documentation;
iv. action research in communities.
b) It complements external institutional ethics approvals where joint projects occur.
24.14 Research Ethics Principles
a) Research must respect:
i. dignity, privacy and safety of participants;
ii. informed consent, especially for interviews or recordings;
iii. confidentiality, except where law or safeguarding duties require disclosure; and
iv. sensitivity to religious, cultural and conflict dynamics.
b) Special care is required when researching children, vulnerable persons or sensitive conflict/trauma areas.
24.15 Approval and Oversight
a) Research projects involving human participants, sensitive topics or heritage sites shall be reviewed by an internal Ethics/Research Review mechanism (e.g. Ethics & Peace Committee or designated sub-group).
b) Where required by universities or funders, HGT will cooperate with external ethics committees.
24.16 Intellectual Property (IP)
a) IP created by staff in the course of their work (e.g. curricula, teaching materials, reports) normally belongs to HGT, as defined in contracts, while respecting moral rights and academic credit.
b) IP created by external collaborators or under joint projects shall be governed by written agreements specifying ownership, licensing and use.
c) Traditional knowledge and intangible heritage belonging to communities must not be appropriated without consent and fair arrangements; community rights and credit shall be respected.
24.17 Publication and Attribution
a) Publications and outputs shall acknowledge contributors appropriately (authors, editors, research assistants, community voices).
b) Sensitive data shall be anonymised where needed for privacy and safety.
6. Programme Design, Safeguarding and Inclusion
24.18 Safeguarding in Educational Programmes
a) All programmes involving children, youth or vulnerable adults must:
i. comply with safeguarding policies (Chapter 13);
ii. ensure adequate ratios of trained adults to participants;
iii. include clear rules on supervision, contact and communication; and
iv. have a designated safeguarding focal person for the programme.
b) Staff and volunteers must know how to respond to and report safeguarding concerns.
24.19 Physical and Psychological Safety
a) Learning environments shall be physically safe (e.g. exits, fire safety, crowd control) and psychologically safe (freedom from harassment, bullying or shaming).
b) Exercises that involve potentially distressing topics (e.g. conflict stories) require careful facilitation and options to opt out.
24.20 Non-Discrimination and Inclusion in Programmes
a) Selection of participants for courses and scholarships shall be based on fair and transparent criteria, without unjust discrimination.
b) Programmes shall, as far as feasible, include strategies to reach marginalised groups and avoid reinforcing social exclusion.
24.21 Partnership Programmes
a) Joint programmes with schools, universities, NGOs or government require written agreements clarifying roles, safeguarding responsibilities and IP.
b) Partners must agree to basic standards on ethics, non-discrimination and protection of participants.
7. Programme Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation
24.22 Implementation Responsibilities
a) Programme Directors/Coordinators are responsible for day-to-day implementation, including scheduling, budget use, staff/volunteer coordination and liaison with other departments.
b) Finance procedures and internal controls must be followed for programme expenditure.
24.23 Participant Feedback and Complaints
a) Where appropriate, HGT shall provide channels for participants to give feedback on programmes, including quality and safety concerns.
b) Complaints from participants shall be treated under the general Complaints and Whistleblowing procedures (Chapters 8, 13), with adaptations for minors where needed.
24.24 Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)
a) Major programmes shall include simple M&E tools to assess:
i. achievement of learning objectives;
ii. participant satisfaction and inclusion;
iii. changes in attitudes or skills related to peace, ethics and heritage care; and
iv. any unintended negative effects.
b) M&E findings shall be used to improve curriculum, teaching methods and safeguarding measures.
24.25 Quality Assurance
a) HGT may establish an internal Education and Programmes Committee or use existing bodies to oversee quality assurance, including periodic review of courses, syllabi and teaching performance.
b) Peer observation, mentoring and external feedback may be used to support continuous improvement.
8. Documentation, Review and Integration
24.26 Programme Records
a) HGT shall maintain records of:
i. approved curricula and syllabi;
ii. schedules and attendance (where relevant);
iii. major teaching and learning materials;
iv. evaluations and significant feedback; and
v. key decisions concerning changes to programmes.
b) Records shall be stored securely and in line with Data Protection policies.
24.27 Review of Educational Portfolio
a) HGT shall periodically review its overall portfolio of educational and programmatic activities to ensure:
i. alignment with mission and strategic priorities;
ii. balance between Dhamma, peace and heritage education;
iii. attention to emerging needs and risks.
b) Reviews may lead to introduction of new programmes, modification or termination of existing ones.
24.28 Integration with Other Sections
a) This Chapter shall be read together with HR & Safeguarding (Section III), Financial Stewardship (Section IV), Relic Custodianship (Section V) and Communications policies.
b) In case of ambiguity, interpretations that best uphold learner safety, ethical teaching, peace and lawful compliance shall prevail.
24.29 Amendment
Any significant change to this Chapter shall be approved in accordance with Chapter 3 (Scope, Applicability and Review Process) and communicated to all relevant staff, teachers and partners.
Chapter 25 – Cultural and Heritage Management (Operations)
CHAPTER 25 – CULTURAL AND HERITAGE MANAGEMENT (OPERATIONS)
1. General Provisions
25.1 Purpose of this Chapter
This Chapter sets rules for the day-to-day management of heritage sites, collections and tourism activities under HGT’s responsibility, to ensure that:
a) artifacts and sites are handled with care and respect;
b) maintenance supports both religious practice and heritage preservation; and
c) tourism and visitor activities are managed ethically and safely.
25.2 Foundations
This Chapter is guided by:
a) UNESCO World Heritage and related guidelines on site and collection management;
b) applicable Myanmar laws and regulations on the Protection of Cultural Heritage, antiquities, building safety and public order;
c) Buddhist principles of non-harm, respect for sacred places and mindful use of resources; and
d) HGT’s heritage custody framework in Section V and governance principles in earlier Sections.
25.3 Scope
a) This Chapter applies to all sites, buildings, collections and outdoor areas managed by HGT that have heritage or religious significance.
b) It covers operational practices for artifact handling, site maintenance, visitor services and tourism-related activities.
2. Roles and Operational Responsibilities
25.4 Relic & Heritage Department
a) The Relic & Heritage Department is responsible for operational policies and oversight of heritage and collections management.
b) It works closely with Facilities, Security, Education & Peace, and Communications departments.
25.5 Site Managers / Wardens
a) Each major site or complex shall have a designated Site Manager or Warden responsible for:
i. daily operations and staff/volunteer coordination;
ii. cleanliness, minor repairs and landscaping;
iii. visitor services and compliance with rules; and
iv. first-line response to incidents.
b) Site Managers report to the relevant department head and cooperate with the Primary Relic Custodian for sacred areas.
25.6 Guides, Educators and Visitor Services Staff
a) Guides and educators shall provide accurate, respectful and non-sensational information.
b) Visitor services staff support orientation, enforcement of codes of conduct, ticketing (if any) and basic crowd management.
3. Artifact Handling in Daily Operations
25.7 Routine Handling and Access
a) Daily handling of artifacts and sacred objects (e.g. cleaning, repositioning, ritual use) must follow the conservation and security standards in Chapters 20–22.
b) Unnecessary handling should be avoided; only authorised and trained personnel may handle sensitive objects.
25.8 Cleaning of Objects
a) Cleaning of relics and sacred objects shall be:
i. minimal and appropriate to the material;
ii. carried out using approved tools and methods; and
iii. supervised by Relic & Heritage staff for sensitive items.
b) Devotional practices that involve touching or applying substances (e.g. water, powder, flowers) shall be managed to avoid cumulative damage and hygiene risks.
25.9 Use of Devotional Items
a) Offerings (flowers, candles, incense, lamps) shall be placed and removed in ways that:
i. respect religious meaning;
ii. avoid smoke, soot or wax damage to objects and buildings; and
iii. minimise fire and safety hazards.
b) Clear instructions and appropriate stands or trays may be provided to guide devotees.
25.10 Operational Handling of Museum Objects
a) Movement of objects for exhibitions, cleaning, photography or teaching must be planned and documented, with appropriate packing and supports.
b) Temporary handling for educational programmes shall be limited to robust items where risk is manageable; fragile or high-value objects should be shown without direct handling by visitors.
4. Site Maintenance: Cleaning, Repairs and Landscaping
25.11 Cleaning of Sites and Buildings
a) Regular cleaning schedules shall be established for:
i. shrine halls, galleries and corridors;
ii. floors, walls, windows and fixtures;
iii. toilets and public facilities.
b) Cleaning methods for heritage surfaces (e.g. stone, murals, wood) must be approved by Relic & Heritage or conservation experts; harsh chemicals or abrasive tools are prohibited.
25.12 Waste Management
a) Adequate bins and waste collection systems shall be provided, especially during festivals and high-visitor periods.
b) Littering is prohibited and anti-litter messages shall be included in visitor information.
c) Recycling and environmentally responsible disposal should be used where feasible.
25.13 Repairs and Maintenance Work
a) Routine repairs (e.g. small structural fixes, electrical work, plumbing) shall be carried out by qualified personnel and planned to avoid unnecessary risk to relics and visitors.
b) Any interventions affecting heritage fabric (e.g. original walls, carvings, murals) must be:
i. assessed by the Relic & Heritage Department;
ii. consistent with Myanmar heritage law; and
iii. authorised by appropriate authorities where required.
c) Major works (e.g. renovations, new constructions) follow separate project and heritage impact procedures.
25.14 Landscaping and Grounds
a) Landscaping, gardening and tree management shall:
i. respect the visual and spiritual character of the site;
ii. avoid root or water damage to foundations and structures; and
iii. consider biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
b) Use of chemicals (e.g. pesticides, herbicides) must be controlled and minimised.
5. Tourism and Visitor Management
25.15 Visitor Policy and Services
a) HGT shall maintain a written Visitor Policy covering:
i. opening hours;
ii. access fees or donations (if any);
iii. guided tour arrangements;
iv. dress codes and behaviour expectations; and
v. basic safety instructions.
b) Policy shall be displayed clearly at entrances and online where possible.
25.16 Dress Codes and Behaviour
a) Visitors shall be requested to dress modestly and behave respectfully in sacred areas.
b) Staff and volunteers shall enforce these rules calmly and courteously, offering solutions (e.g. shawls, cover-ups) where possible rather than confrontation.
25.17 Photography and Filming
a) Rules on photography and filming shall be defined for different zones:
i. unrestricted areas;
ii. restricted or no-flash areas;
iii. no-photography or no-video areas (e.g. certain rituals, relic chambers).
b) Commercial photography, filming or drone use requires prior written permission and must respect heritage, safety, privacy and religious sensibilities.
25.18 Guiding and Interpretation
a) Only authorised guides or teachers may conduct official tours or explanations on behalf of HGT.
b) Guides shall:
i. present accurate information;
ii. avoid political or sectarian propaganda;
iii. emphasise peace, tolerance and ethical custodianship; and
iv. respect time and space constraints, especially during rituals.
25.19 Commercial Activities on Site
a) Shops, stalls or food vendors allowed on HGT-controlled premises must:
i. operate under written agreements;
ii. comply with health, safety and cleanliness rules;
iii. avoid selling counterfeit relics or illicit antiquities; and
iv. not obstruct pathways or sacred spaces.
b) Aggressive selling, harassment of visitors or deceptive practices are prohibited.
6. Visitor Flow, Safety and Community Relations
25.20 Visitor Flow Management
a) For busy periods, HGT shall implement measures such as:
i. designated entry and exit routes;
ii. one-way flows in narrow areas;
iii. time slots or capacity limits where needed; and
iv. clear signage and staff guidance.
b) Special attention shall be given to preventing overcrowding in relic chambers and on stairways or elevated platforms.
25.21 Safety and Incident Management
a) Site managers shall ensure:
i. visible emergency exits and signage;
ii. regular checks of stairways, railings, lighting and paths;
iii. basic first-aid readiness and contact with emergency services.
b) Accidents or near-misses shall be recorded and reported according to Chapter 9, with improvements implemented as needed.
25.22 Community Relations
a) HGT shall maintain constructive relations with neighbouring communities, respecting local customs and addressing concerns about noise, traffic and crowding.
b) Community dialogue may be used to plan festival schedules, traffic management and shared use of spaces.
7. Coordination with Authorities and Legal Compliance
25.23 Coordination with Heritage and Local Authorities
a) HGT shall cooperate with relevant heritage departments, municipal bodies and security authorities for:
i. necessary permits (e.g. works, festivals, processions);
ii. inspections and compliance checks;
iii. joint emergency planning.
b) HGT shall promptly implement lawful instructions that are compatible with its ethical and doctrinal commitments.
25.24 Regulatory Compliance
a) Day-to-day operations shall comply with applicable laws on:
i. heritage protection;
ii. safety and fire regulations;
iii. public health and sanitation;
iv. business licensing for on-site commercial activities.
b) Site managers shall report any regulatory visits and follow-up requirements to the Executive Director and relevant departments.
8. Training, Monitoring and Review
25.25 Operational Training
a) Staff and volunteers involved in daily heritage operations shall receive training in:
i. basic conservation-friendly cleaning and handling;
ii. visitor communication and conflict de-escalation;
iii. safety and emergency procedures;
iv. application of dress, photography and behaviour rules.
b) Guides shall receive additional training on content accuracy, peace messages and intercultural sensitivity.
25.26 Monitoring and Quality Control
a) The Relic & Heritage Department and Site Managers shall regularly monitor operational practices, using checklists, inspections and visitor feedback.
b) Identified problems (e.g. repeated damage, crowding, litter, complaints) shall lead to corrective actions and, where needed, policy or layout adjustments.
25.27 Periodic Review and Integration
a) This Chapter shall be reviewed periodically in light of operational experience, heritage audits, legal changes and community feedback.
b) It shall be read together with Chapters 20–23, the Financial Stewardship and Safeguarding chapters; in case of ambiguity, interpretations that best protect heritage, support safe devotion and maintain social harmony shall prevail.
Chapter 26 – Community Engagement and Partnerships
CHAPTER 26 – COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND PARTNERSHIPS
1. General Provisions
26.1 Purpose of this Chapter
This Chapter establishes HGT’s approach to community engagement and partnerships in order to:
a) strengthen healthy, respectful relations with local communities, devotees and stakeholders;
b) build constructive cooperation with temples, NGOs, universities, public agencies and international bodies; and
c) ensure that such relationships support HGT’s mission, peace-building and ethical standards.
26.2 Foundations
This Chapter is guided by:
a) Vinaya and Buddhist practice, including the example of the alms-round (piṇḍapāta), humility and mutual dependence between Saṅgha and lay communities;
b) UN and UNESCO partnership principles, including participation, mutual respect, transparency and shared responsibility;
c) applicable Myanmar regulations for NGOs/CSOs, associations, religious organisations and foreign-funded activities; and
d) HGT’s core values, governance and safeguarding principles in earlier Sections.
26.3 Scope
a) This Chapter applies to all structured forms of community engagement and partnership, including:
i. local community consultations;
ii. volunteer programmes;
iii. collaborative projects with temples, monasteries and other religious institutions;
iv. cooperation with NGOs, CSOs, universities, networks and public agencies;
v. participation in international or regional initiatives.
b) It covers both formal partnerships (with MoUs or contracts) and organised informal engagement initiatives.
2. Principles of Community Engagement
26.4 Respect and Reciprocity
a) HGT recognises that it exists in mutual relationship with local communities, devotees and neighbours.
b) Engagement shall be based on respect, listening, reciprocity and recognition of local knowledge and needs.
26.5 Peace and Social Harmony
a) Community engagement shall aim to reduce tensions and support peaceful coexistence among different groups.
b) Activities must not be used to incite hatred, exclusion or sectarian division.
26.6 Inclusiveness and Non-Discrimination
a) Community outreach shall, as far as feasible, be inclusive of different genders, generations, ethnicities and social groups.
b) Decisions on who is invited or consulted should avoid unjust discrimination or favouritism.
26.7 Transparency and Accountability
a) HGT shall be transparent about its role, projects and limitations when engaging communities and partners.
b) Expectations should be realistic; promises must not be made lightly or for short-term popularity.
3. Community Consultation and Feedback Mechanisms
26.8 Consultation on Key Projects
a) For major projects or changes that significantly affect local communities (e.g. new constructions, large festivals, changes in access or traffic), HGT shall organise community consultations at an early stage.
b) Consultations may include:
i. meetings with community leaders and representatives;
ii. open public meetings, where appropriate;
iii. focused discussions with affected groups (e.g. vendors, residents, youth).
26.9 Information Sharing
a) Before consultations, HGT should provide clear and accessible information about:
i. the nature of the project or change;
ii. expected benefits and potential negative impacts; and
iii. possible alternatives or mitigation measures.
b) Information may be shared verbally, in writing or through visual materials, depending on local needs.
26.10 Recording and Use of Feedback
a) Community feedback shall be respectfully recorded (e.g. notes, minutes, summarised comments).
b) HGT shall consider this feedback seriously and, where possible, adjust plans or introduce mitigation.
c) HGT should communicate back to communities how their views were considered and the reasons for final decisions.
26.11 Ongoing Feedback Channels
a) In addition to formal consultations, HGT shall provide ongoing feedback channels for neighbours and community members, such as:
i. a designated contact person or office;
ii. suggestion boxes or comment forms;
iii. scheduled open hours for community queries.
b) Feedback that is effectively a complaint or safeguarding concern shall be handled through the Complaints and Safeguarding procedures.
4. Volunteer Programmes
26.12 Role of Volunteers
a) Volunteers are an important bridge between HGT and communities, acting as co-custodians of heritage, peace and service.
b) Volunteer programmes shall reflect HGT’s HR, safeguarding and ethical standards (Chapter 10 and 13).
26.13 Volunteer Recruitment and Selection
a) Volunteer roles shall be clearly described, including duties, required skills and ethical expectations.
b) Recruitment shall be open and fair, without unjust exclusion of groups, and with attention to diversity and inclusion.
c) For roles involving children, vulnerable persons or sensitive heritage, basic screening and orientation are required.
26.14 Orientation and Supervision
a) Volunteers shall receive orientation on:
i. HGT’s mission and values;
ii. relevant codes of conduct and safeguarding rules;
iii. specific tasks and safety considerations.
b) Volunteers must have a designated supervisor or contact person responsible for guidance and problem-solving.
26.15 Recognition and Boundaries
a) Volunteers should be appreciated and recognised appropriately (certificates, thank-you events, learning opportunities), without being exploited as unpaid staff for core functions that require formal employment.
b) Monetary arrangements for volunteers shall follow HR and financial policies (no informal “under-the-table” payments).
5. Partnerships and Collaboration Frameworks
26.16 Types of Partners
HGT may collaborate with:
a) other temples, monasteries and religious institutions;
b) NGOs/CSOs working on education, peace, heritage, environment or social services;
c) universities and research institutes;
d) government agencies and local authorities;
e) international organisations, including UN and UNESCO-related bodies.
26.17 Principles for Partnerships
a) Partnerships should:
i. align with HGT’s mission, values and legal obligations;
ii. be based on mutual respect and clear roles;
iii. avoid creating dependency or loss of ethical independence;
iv. support peace, heritage protection and social good.
b) HGT shall avoid partnerships with entities whose primary activities clearly contradict HGT’s ethical and peace commitments (e.g. hate groups, illicit heritage traders).
26.18 Written Agreements (MoUs and Contracts)
a) Formal partnerships, especially those involving financial flows, joint projects, staff exchanges or use of HGT’s name and logo, shall be set out in written agreements, such as:
i. Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs);
ii. cooperation agreements;
iii. project contracts.
b) Agreements should cover:
i. objectives and scope;
ii. roles and responsibilities of each party;
iii. governance and decision-making arrangements;
iv. financial or in-kind contributions and reporting;
v. safeguarding and ethical commitments;
vi. duration and termination;
vii. dispute resolution.
26.19 Review and Approval of Partnerships
a) Proposed partnerships shall be reviewed internally for:
i. alignment with mission and ethics;
ii. legal and regulatory compliance;
iii. financial implications and risks;
iv. safeguarding and reputational considerations.
b) Approval levels (e.g. ED, Board) shall depend on the scope and risk of the partnership, as defined in internal SOPs.
26.20 Use of HGT Name and Logo
a) Partners may use HGT’s name and logo only with written permission and within the limits specified in the relevant agreement.
b) Misuse (e.g. implying endorsement of unrelated activities or political campaigns) is not permitted.
6. Compliance with Laws and International Norms
26.21 Myanmar NGO/CSO and Registration Rules
a) Partnerships with NGOs/CSOs shall comply with Myanmar’s registration and reporting requirements.
b) HGT shall verify that partners claiming NGO/CSO status are properly registered and operating lawfully, where such verification is possible.
26.22 Foreign Funding and Activities
a) Where partnerships involve foreign funding or international organisations, HGT shall comply with relevant regulations on:
i. reporting of foreign grants or donations;
ii. project approvals;
iii. restrictions on certain activities.
b) Legal/Compliance and Finance Departments shall be consulted before commitments are made.
26.23 UN and UNESCO-Related Partnerships
a) Collaborations with UN/UNESCO or similar bodies shall follow their partnership principles (e.g. neutrality, human rights, transparency).
b) HGT shall honour commitments in such partnerships and report honestly on joint activities.
7. Safeguards in Community and Partnership Work
26.24 Safeguarding and Protection
a) All community and partnership activities must respect safeguarding policies (Chapter 13), especially where children and vulnerable adults are involved.
b) Joint programmes must clearly allocate safeguarding responsibilities between HGT and partners.
26.25 Conflict Sensitivity and Do-No-Harm
a) Community and partnership activities shall be designed and implemented using a conflict-sensitive approach, asking:
i. how actions may affect relations between groups;
ii. whether there is a risk of reinforcing grievances;
iii. how to maximise contribution to peace and understanding.
b) Where activities risk aggravating tensions, they must be redesigned or cancelled.
26.26 Anti-Corruption and Transparency in Partnerships
a) Partnership arrangements involving funds, in-kind resources or sponsorships must follow financial, procurement and anti-corruption policies (Chapters 15–19).
b) Any suspicion of misuse of funds or unethical conduct by partners must be addressed promptly, including reviewing or terminating the partnership where necessary.
8. Monitoring, Learning and Review
26.27 Monitoring Community and Partnership Activities
a) Departments responsible for community and partnership projects shall monitor:
i. implementation progress;
ii. quality of relationships with communities and partners;
iii. unexpected impacts, positive or negative.
b) Serious issues (e.g. community conflict, safeguarding incidents, partner misconduct) shall be reported under the relevant incident or complaints procedures.
26.28 Learning and Reflection
a) HGT shall encourage reflection on community engagement and partnerships, using:
i. feedback from communities, partners and participants;
ii. internal reviews or after-action reflections;
iii. external evaluations for major projects, when feasible.
b) Lessons learned shall inform future programme design, partnership selection and consultation methods.
26.29 Documentation and Records
a) Records of key consultations, volunteer programmes and partnership agreements shall be maintained securely by relevant departments (e.g. Community/Outreach, Relic & Heritage, Legal/Compliance).
b) This includes minutes, MoUs, reports and correspondence.
26.30 Review and Amendment
a) This Chapter shall be reviewed periodically in light of operational experience, community feedback, legal changes and evolving best practices in community engagement.
b) Amendments shall be approved in accordance with Chapter 3 and communicated to staff, volunteers and relevant partners.