Bangkok: The “Learning Project to Transform the Education System with the King’s Teachings,” driven by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHPF) and the Thai Alcohol Control Network (TACN), continues to advance Thai education by integrating the royal philosophy and speeches of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (King Rama IX). This initiative has been active for over 16 years.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Rojana Klinhom, Director of Wat Hat Samran Community School, Chumphon Primary Educational Service Area 2, shared insights into the project, “The Father’s Teachings,” which the school joined in 2010. The initiative focuses on fostering mutual affection between teachers and students, employing Neo-Humanist psychology principles to deepen understanding and self-awareness. Activities like the “Four-Direction Animal Wheel” have facilitated genuine learning and growth.
Addressing risk factors in children and youth extends beyond individual behaviors to the educational process itself. Teaching routines must integrate parental guidance throughout the day to protect children from vices such as alcohol and gambling. This approach has led to improved concentration and responsibility among students and reduced addiction problems.
Ms. Chadasa Chanphromthong, known as Teacher Sara from Ban Namuang School in Songkhla, joined the project in 2017. She emphasized the importance of self-change among teachers to effect change in students and the community. Her initiatives have revitalized her school, increasing student enrollment and community involvement.
In Chiang Mai, Ms. Waraporn Kampa of Ban Luang Nuea School initiated the “Little Bodhisattva Asks Parents to Quit Alcohol” project in 2011. This initiative promoted a safe learning environment, encouraging self-expression among students and fostering better communication between teachers and parents.
Ms. Yaowadee Yoisawat from Ban Khlong Kok School in Chumphon highlighted the positive impact of the program since joining in 2017. Her efforts have significantly reduced risky behaviors among students and strengthened family relationships through “Parenting Classrooms.”
Ms. Suraswadi Leikbangplad of Wat Sophonaram School in Samut Sakhon reported successful outcomes from activities like “Love Letters” and songs promoting abstinence from alcohol and tobacco. These initiatives have boosted student confidence and reduced parental drinking habits.
Ms. Chutawan Raya of Ban Tha Som School in Trang, a newcomer to the project in 2022, has witnessed the benefits of self-reflection and positive reinforcement routines. The network of “Schools of the Father’s Teachings” in Trang Province has expanded to 29 schools, demonstrating significant growth.
The collective experiences from these schools have evolved into ‘Learning Centers Based on the King’s Teachings,’ facilitating knowledge sharing and collaborative transformation across educational areas. The King’s Teachings emphasize returning to educational fundamentals and self-transformation, ultimately leading to community-wide change.