Bangkok: The Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) recently convened its 6th meeting of the year with district directors across the nation to coordinate efforts in providing assistance to areas affected by disasters and to align educational strategies with sustainable local needs.
According to Thai News Agency, the meeting was chaired by Second Lieutenant Thanu Wongchinda, the Secretary-General of OBEC. The agenda was centered around aligning the policies of the Office of the Basic Education Commission with the Ministry of Education’s directives for fiscal year 2025. The meeting, which took place both in-person at the OBEC building and online via Zoom, included high-ranking OBEC officials such as Mrs. Kesathip Suphawanich, Mr. Phattana Phattanathaweedol, Mr. Theer Phawangkanan, Mr. Phuthon Chantahong Punyajarathamrong, and Mrs. Phattariyawan Phannoi. It also saw participation from directors and deputies from all 245 district educational service areas and representatives from educational institutions across 77 provinces.
Acting Sub-Lieutenant Thanu emphasized the Ministry of Education’s current focus on reducing unnecessary workloads for teachers, improving their welfare, and promoting subjects like history and science. He called on district directors to integrate these priorities into classroom practices effectively. Professor Dr. Narumon Pinyosinwat, Minister of Education, extended his gratitude to district directors for their dedication and encouraged feedback to adapt policies that address contemporary educational needs and foster sustainable student development.
A significant point of discussion was the urgent need for assistance in areas impacted by Thai-Cambodian border clashes. Safety measures and emergency response plans were highlighted as top priorities, alongside collaboration with local authorities. Educational institutions have been requested to serve as temporary shelters where needed. Additionally, in flood or natural disaster-affected areas, there is a push for rapid damage assessment to secure funds for repairs, ensuring a swift return to regular operations.
Further, the OBEC Secretary-General expressed condolences to those affected by recent events and urged unity in overcoming these challenges. Senior OBEC officials presented updates on policy implementation, covering topics like raising education quality to meet international standards, managing debt issues for educational personnel, and preserving Thai culture through the arts. Other focal points included managing personnel, disaster rehabilitation budget allocation, ensuring school safety, promoting Thai history, and enhancing public relations for educational achievements.