"Cetana" (pronounced "say-da-nah") is a Myanmar concept meaning "goodwill, benevolence without thought of recompense in service to others or one's country." The idea behind the Foundation is that each gift is a gift that keeps on giving. Donors give without thought of being repaid. Educational institutions provide opportunities without thought of returns. And our Scholars return to Myanmar to share their expertise with others. . The result of this work, a "win-win-win" cycle benefiting people throughout Myanmar.

Cetana is a collaboration of Americans in the United States and Myanmar people both in Myanmar and their adopted American homeland. Cetana is unique in its ability to work both inside and outside Myanmar. The Cetana Board (US) works to build partnerships with universities outside Myanmar and to obtain funding. It was, however, Myanmar citizens who first expressed the need for an organization like Cetana. Today the Myanmar Advisory Board manages Cetana's activities inside Myanmar, including day-to-day running of the Cetana English Proficiency Center, locating and screening qualified students and professionals inside Myanmar who wish to continue their education, and assisting graduates in finding useful and rewarding employment upon their return to Myanmar.

Cetana is completely autonomous. It is not affiliated directly or indirectly with the governments of Myanmar or the United States, or any other government.