Arthit Ourairat, the President of Rangsit University wrote some time ago in the Bangkok Post about the continued failure and deterioration of the Thai education system over the years. It is not just academics and administrators that are speaking out. It appears that more and more members of society have decided that it’s time for improvements in our education system to be significant and more importantly effective.

Whether people like it or not, Thailand is part of the global economy and as such has an important part to play or find itself left behind. The article by Arthit Ourairat in essence pointed out that Thailand’s education system is based on an attempt to remember text books and take part in the competition for grades and diplomas.

Christopher Anyadubalu whilst commenting on the original article explains, “that it is only when theory and practice are genuinely integrated in the learning process of students that they can effectively utilise knowledge for the common good and become creative, innovative, independent and goal orientated.”

These views were further reinforced by the new director of UNESCO’s Asia Pacific Region Bureau for Education in Bangkok, Gwang-Jo Kim. He added that participation in education was not enough. “Education should be a process that empowers individuals to develop confidence and the ability to apply knowledge and skills in diverse circumstances and to participate in a range of social, cultural, economic and political activities.”

Some members of our society continue to think they are above reproach. Whether it is in the procurement of course books or the distribution of school milk, there are people amongst us who have no problem with making money off the backs of our students and schools illegally.

It is also worrying that teachers, managers and administrators apply the “Kreng jai” principle in matters concerning education, countering any positive moves by individuals to improve the educational dilemmas they may be facing at their place of work. In my opinion, it is going to be very difficult to improve our education system if “Kreng jai” continues in this way.  

Ask any teacher if they are satisfied with their job and working conditions and they will tell you in no uncertain terms the problems they face on a daily basis. Of course, it is human nature to complain, especially in my culture coming from the west; however, I wonder if there was an inspection by members of the government, whether the same complaints would be discussed in such a candid way.

The Office for National Education Standards and Quality Assessment (ONESQA) leads the way in providing assistance and feedback to all the establishments that it inspects. Again, the lack of internal quality assurance in our educational institutions can’t be used as an excuse for failed standards. This omission of a vital component in quality control needs to be addressed quickly in order to align the daily routine of our schools and universities with the proven reporting processes for ONESQA.  

Our local communities are also having their say by opening their own schools. The amount of Thai - Chinese schools and education foundations with charitable status in my province demonstrates the point in question. It is apparent that some in our community are not happy with what there is and are planning to do something about it. What do you say?

Teachers will have to speak up if they want to be heard.
(Unedited article published in the Bangkok Post 5th January 2010)