Bangkok: The Minister of Education led a team of civil engineers to inspect educational institutions after the earthquake. Minister of Education 'Phetphun' spearheaded the initiative to urgently survey affected areas and ensure safety within 24 hours.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Gen. Permpoon Chidchob, the Minister of Education, visited numerous educational institutions following the earthquake. He was accompanied by Mr. Suthep Kaengsanthia, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, and other key officials, including Mr. Theer Phawankanan and Mr. Narongchai Charoenrujitrap, along with civil engineers, to inspect buildings at Satriwitthaya School 1.
The Minister emphasized the Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra's concern for the safety of citizens, particularly students. The Ministry of Education has been tasked with ensuring the safety of students, teachers, and educational personnel. There is a provision for observations by teachers, students, and personnel, with the ability to report concerns to the Council of Engineers. For severe structural damage, further inspection by the Department of Public Works and the Council of Engineers will be conducted.
The Ministry is closely monitoring the situation and has prepared an online form to survey damage in educational institutions nationwide. The survey, to be completed by March 30, 2025, will categorize safety levels as green (safe), yellow (minor damage), or red (dangerous). This assessment will determine the feasibility of reopening institutions safely.
An on-site survey at Satriwitthaya School revealed no structural damage, ensuring normal function of electrical and water systems. However, entrance examinations for Mathayom 1 and Mathayom 4 students have been postponed as a precaution. The school will announce new examination dates post safety verification.
Volunteer engineers inspected the Ministry of Education's buildings, confirming no structural damage and safe working conditions. Institutions lacking inspection can contact the Department of Public Works and Town and Country Planning for preliminary assessments.
Parents are assured that student safety is a priority. Unsafe areas will remain closed, and only essential personnel will work in potentially unsafe conditions. The Ministry stresses that safety verification is mandatory before allowing normal operations to resume.