Bangkok: The Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) has announced that the entrance exams for Mathayom 1 and Mathayom 4 will now take place on April 5-6, 2025, following the recent earthquake in Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, Lt. Col. Thanu Wongchinda, Secretary-General of OBEC, stated that the initial proposal to hold the exams on April 26-27, 2025, was revised after assessing the earthquake's impact on schools. Most schools were found to be either unaffected or only slightly damaged, allowing them to proceed with the exams as planned. The decision to reschedule the exams to April 5 and 6 was made considering the improving situation and safety reasons. However, schools that are not ready can delay the exams, prioritizing the safety of students and staff.
The 2025 student admission calendar includes the Mathayom 1 exam on April 5, with results announced by April 7, and enrollment by April 10. The Mathayom 4 exam will be held on April 6, with results by April 8, and enrollment by April 10. Schools with remaining vacancies will be listed online by April 11, allowing students without placements to apply between April 17-22. Final placements will be announced by April 24, and enrollment will conclude by April 27, 2025. The first semester is set to begin on May 16, 2025.
In response to parental concerns, OBEC has implemented a contingency plan addressing safety, exam room preparedness, and emergency response. Schools are advised to verify building safety, avoid using high-floor exam rooms, and develop evacuation plans. Coordination with local agencies, such as the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department, is also emphasized. Exam results and registration will be accessible through various platforms to ensure convenience. OBEC has arranged for schools to distribute uniforms and learning equipment on registration day, ensuring readiness for the new semester.
OBEC acknowledges the impact of the exam postponement on students and parents. The commission assures that all efforts are being made to minimize disruptions, with student safety as the primary concern. The Ministry of Education, under the leadership of Pol. Gen. Phetphun Chidchob and Mr. Surasak Pancharoenworakul, emphasizes the importance of ensuring a safe and flexible learning environment. A team of experts is inspecting exam venues to guarantee their suitability, and contingency plans are in place to adapt to any future disasters. OBEC is committed to supporting every student and ensuring their safety.