Bangkok: A spokesperson for the Ministry of Education has addressed concerns raised by Thaksin Shinawatra regarding the size and efficiency of the Ministry of Education. The spokesperson stated that the ministry's structure is indeed extensive but emphasized the need for integration over downsizing. The spokesperson also noted the potential of Thai teachers, suggesting they can excel with continuous professional development and skills enhancement. The government has been urged to allocate the requested budget to facilitate this development, with anticipated improvements within three years.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, the spokesperson, responded to Thaksin Shinawatra's critiques of the Thai education system, which he associated with the Ministry of Education's large structure impacting educational management. Thaksin suggested that the focus on memorization limits students' critical thinking abilities and necessitates hiring foreign teachers to aid in teaching.
The spokesperson acknowledged these concerns, recognizing them as longstanding issues. He highlighted past efforts under Police General Phemphun Chidchob's tenure to address these challenges, particularly through teacher transfers and assessments based on capability. He explained that previous attempts to streamline the ministry by reducing its size did not yield significant results, advocating instead for improved internal integration to enhance efficiency.
Regarding the recruitment of foreign teachers, the spokesperson expressed confidence in the abilities of Thai teachers, suggesting that ongoing professional development and technology integration could enhance their skills. He dismissed the notion that hiring foreign educators should be contingent on funds from online gambling, asserting that securing quality educators is a government responsibility irrespective of such funding.
The spokesperson also emphasized the role of technology in fostering analytical thinking among students. While acknowledging disparities in educational quality and funding between different types of schools, he maintained that technology is a key component of current educational advancements.
The Ministry of Education has requested additional budget allocations for resources such as learning equipment, which remain unfunded. The spokesperson attributed many existing challenges to budgetary constraints, expressing optimism that with the requested funding over the next three years, the ministry could achieve more rapid and substantial educational development.