Bangkok: "Prasert" discusses private vocational education! Aims to review the structure, focusing on reducing obstacles and increasing flexibility to improve the quality of private vocational students. "Prasert" held discussions with representatives from the Association of Private Technological and Vocational Colleges of Thailand, under the royal patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, regarding strategies to advance private vocational education to keep pace with the world.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Prasert Chantarawong, Minister of Education, revealed after a meeting with representatives of the Association of Private Technological and Vocational Colleges of Thailand, under the royal patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, the guidelines for driving private vocational education to keep pace with the modern world. The focus is on removing outdated regulations to increase flexibility and create educational standards that truly meet the needs of the labor market.
Mr. Prasert stated that the Ministry of Education places great importance on reducing the burden and enhancing the capabilities of private vocational schools. Therefore, the proposals from the association are considered crucial in driving the quality of vocational education, particularly regarding upgrading schools with technology, allowing for flexible short-term courses similar to those offered by the public sector, and expanding the credit bank system to cover private vocational students. The Ministry of Education is ready to support these approaches to promote equal opportunities for all students.
'Regarding the proposals to improve per capita subsidies and budgetary support for private school teachers to be on par with public school teachers, we are currently carefully considering this in policy terms with key agencies such as the Comptroller General's Department and the Budget Bureau, to ensure that the implementation of regulations is correct, transparent, and provides maximum benefit,' Mr. Prasert said.
Mr. Prasert addressed the issue of transferring private vocational schools from the Office of the Vocational Education Commission (OVEC) back to the Office of the Private Education Commission (OPEC), as proposed by the association, stating that the Ministry is ready to update outdated regulations. If a legal review indicates that this is feasible without obstacles and is in the best interest of education, the Ministry of Education is willing to move forward with this matter to allow private schools to manage their operations more efficiently and to their full potential.
Regarding the proposal to revive tax incentives for educational donations to encourage greater private sector participation in education, the Minister of Education has acknowledged the proposal and considers the concept important. The Minister believes that if implemented, it would be a key factor in strengthening and sustaining the quality of Thai vocational education.