Bangkok: Mr. Thirachai Phanthumas, an MP for Bangkok from the Prachachon Party, has raised serious concerns regarding the Ministry of Education’s budget allocation, accusing it of allowing a “termite budget” to devour funds meant for educational resources. According to Thirachai, the ministry allocates 9 billion baht annually for purchasing books for schools, with a significant portion of the budget, over 5 billion baht, specifically designated for schools under the Office of the Basic Education Commission.
According to Thai News Agency, Thirachai highlighted discrepancies in book printing costs, noting that the trade organization involved in book distribution gains a surplus of 1 billion baht annually due to inflated printing costs. Thirachai questioned the necessity of the trade organization’s role as a broker, suggesting that direct management by the Office of the Basic Education Commission could eliminate unnecessary expenses.
Thirachai further criticized the bidding process for textbook printing, claiming it is rigged to favor long-standing contractors, thereby excluding new competitors. He emphasized that this practice results in the government overspending on textbooks, which are procured with public funds, and questioned the quality of these educational materials.
Additionally, Thirachai pointed out issues with quality control in the separation of book text and cover printing, which he claims leads to further financial losses for the trading organization. A complaint has been lodged with the Minister of Education, Pol. Gen. Phermpoon Chidchob, but Thirachai expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of action taken against those responsible for these practices.
Thirachai urged a reevaluation of the necessity of the trading organization’s involvement in book publishing. He suggested potential savings of up to 1 billion baht if the government managed printing and distribution directly, without intermediaries. Thirachai called for transparency and decisive action from the Minister of Education to address these issues and prevent future budget mismanagement.