Dr. Zaw Wai Soe
Medical leader & NUG minister
Dr. Zaw Wai Soe is a prominent Burmese orthopedic surgeon, educator, and political leader currently serving as the Union Minister for Health and Education in Myanmar’s National Unity Government (NUG). He is recognized for his pivotal role in Myanmar’s medical education reform and his leadership during the country’s ongoing health and education crises.
Early Life and Medical Career
Born in Yangon, Dr. Zaw Wai Soe graduated with an M.B.B.S. from the University of Medicine 2 in Yangon in 1986. He served as a civil assistant surgeon in Myingan District Hospital before furthering his medical training in the United Kingdom. Upon returning to Myanmar in 2000, he worked in the Orthopedic Department of Yangon General Hospital and Yangon Orthopedic Hospital. In 2014, he was appointed Rector of the University of Medicine 2, Yangon, and later became Rector of the University of Medicine 1, Yangon in 2015. He also chaired the Myanmar Rectors’ Committee from 2019 until the military coup in 2021.
Leadership in the National Unity Government
Following the 2021 military coup, Dr. Zaw Wai Soe became a key figure in the NUG. On March 2, 2021, he was appointed as acting Union Minister for Health, Education, and Labour by the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw. On April 16, 2021, he was officially appointed as Union Minister for Health and Education by the NUG.
In April 2025, Dr. Zaw Wai Soe returned to Myanmar, becoming the first NUG minister to do so following a public call by Acting President Duwa Lashi La. He resumed his work on health and education initiatives and encouraged Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) health workers to join the revolution.
Advocacy and Recognition
Dr. Zaw Wai Soe has been a vocal advocate for healthcare and education reforms in Myanmar. He has highlighted the challenges faced by the country’s health and education systems, especially in conflict-affected areas, and has called for international support to address these issues. In recognition of his efforts, he was awarded the Edward Barsky Award by the American Public Health Association in 2024 for his commitment to health and humanitarian work during Myanmar’s Spring Revolution.
Personal Life
Dr. Zaw Wai Soe is married and has children. He is known for his dedication to his profession and his country, balancing his medical career with his responsibilities as a public servant.
For more information, you can visit the official website of the Ministry of Health and Education of the National Unity Government: moe.nugmyanmar.org.
