Bangkok: Dr. Warong Dechgitvigrom, a Member of Parliament and leader of the Thai Bhakdi Party, has urged the Ministry of Education to investigate allegations of rigged specifications concerning vocational education equipment. According to Dr. Warong, the inclusion of specific requirements, such as the 6D Mouse specification in budget documents, could potentially limit competition and favor certain parties. He also called for on-site investigations by political figures to address these concerns.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Warong has expressed concerns that the specifications for educational equipment procurement, particularly by the Office of the Vocational Education Commission, may impose conditions that restrict competition or favor certain vendors. He emphasized the need for transparency and fairness in the utilization of public funds.
Dr. Warong highlighted that this issue is linked to discussions on the draft budget bill for fiscal year 2027, where concerns were raised about the Ministry of Education's budget preparation. Specifications for equipment appeared in budget documents from the Budget Bureau at the outset, rather than solely in the Terms of Reference (TOR) used in procurement.
One notable case involves the procurement of educational robots, where budget documents and TOR specify the use of a 6D smart mouse for the control system. Dr. Warong questioned the necessity of such a specification and whether it restricts bidding opportunities to certain vendors.
The requirements in question have reportedly been in place since fiscal year 2024 and continue into fiscal year 2027. Dr. Warong believes these specifications should be thoroughly examined.
Dr. Warong has called on the Ministry of Education's executives, the Deputy Prime Minister, and the Minister of Education to investigate the situation at the Vocational Education Office. He warned that failing to address the issue could lead to suspicions of vested interests and potential collusion for personal gain.
Additionally, Dr. Warong urged the Minister of Education and the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation to coordinate efforts to verify the procurement process. He also requested political figures to conduct on-site investigations to ensure fair and transparent procurement practices.
Dr. Warong clarified that his demand is aimed at conducting a fact-finding investigation and providing public clarification, without accusing any Ministry of Education executives or political figures of wrongdoing. The primary focus is to scrutinize the procurement process to prevent the misuse of education funds and to build confidence in the use of government resources, benefiting youth and vocational students.