Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, expressed gratitude to Settha Thavisin for the successful implementation of the Thailand Zero Dropout Plus (TZD+) policy, which has effectively reintegrated over 600,000 students into the education system. The Prime Minister emphasized the government's commitment to continuing the TZD+ initiative as a strategic investment in developing the nation's human capital.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister Anutin presided over the Prime Minister's Thailand Zero Dropout Plus Award Ceremony for 2026, where he praised award recipients and discussed future policies to strengthen the initiative. He conveyed his enthusiasm for collaborating with former Prime Minister Settha Thavisin, who was instrumental in launching the TZD+ policy. Anutin highlighted the pivotal roles of the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Education, led by Police General Permpoon Chidchob during his tenure as Minister of Education, in promoting and implementing the policy.
The Prime Minister commended the award recipients, acknowledging the collective efforts that have transformed the lives of children and youth, which ultimately shapes the country's future. The government prioritizes educational equality, recognizing that the nation's most vital asset is the potential of its people. The focus on developing individuals, especially during their formative school years, is essential to addressing dropout issues and ensuring children do not miss critical developmental opportunities.
Anutin reiterated the government's dedication to enhancing the TZD+ policy, which extends beyond mere reintegration into classrooms to include skill-building aligned with labor market demands. This approach aims to equip students for successful careers and significant contributions to national development. Over the last 2-3 years, the number of out-of-school children has been reduced from over 1 million to approximately 400,000, thanks to the concerted efforts of all sectors involved.
The Prime Minister extended his gratitude to Mr. Settha Thavisin for initiating the policy, Mr. Prasert Chantharawongthong, the current Minister of Education, for his ongoing implementation efforts, and Pol. Gen. Permpoon Chidchob, who now chairs the national project committee. He also acknowledged the provincial governors, government agency heads, and various sectors for their roles in achieving substantial progress.
The directive calls for provincial governors, as committee chairpersons, to integrate agency efforts in identifying out-of-school children, ensuring continuous assistance, and resolving learning obstacles. Additionally, the involvement of the provincial Red Cross, led by the governors' spouses, in providing health, welfare, and social support to children and families was encouraged. The private sector is also invited to participate in reducing educational inequality, as aiding children in education and skill acquisition builds the nation's human resources in the long run.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Anutin noted that Settha Thavisin's return to Government House signifies their strong relationship and the valuable guidance he offers in executing official responsibilities.