Bangkok: The Ministry of Education has granted school directors in seven provinces along the Thai-Cambodian border the authority to close schools immediately if they feel conditions are unsafe. These measures come with preparations such as bunkers and rehearsals of emergency response plans, while morale reportedly remains steady.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Assistant Minister to the Ministry of Education and Spokesperson of the Ministry, detailed the preparedness measures for schools in these border provinces. Following recent incidents along the border, Minister of Education Pol. Gen. Phermpoon Chidchob has directed educational authorities to closely monitor the situation and practice emergency protocols. School administrators are empowered to close schools if they perceive threats to student and staff safety. The Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) has coordinated with security agencies and the Ministry of Interior to safeguard these areas.

Mr. Siripong noted that schools in border areas are equipped with bunkers, which are being inspected and prepared for potential use. Emergency response plans are being rehearsed, and assistance is being provided by the private sector, the Department of Provincial Administration, and the Ministry of Interior to address any unusable facilities. Alternative learning methods, such as homework assignments and online classes, will be employed if schools need to close.

Regarding morale, Mr. Siripong assured that the Ministry of Education has been supportive of personnel working along the border, maintaining good spirits among staff. The situation has not intensified, contributing to continued morale among educational personnel.