Bangkok: The Ministry of Education is intensifying its efforts to upgrade school safety, focusing on six model areas of educational innovation. "Prasert" emphasizes the significance of educational innovation zones, aiming to reduce teacher workload, lessen inequality, and introduce an AI Framework, while expediting the nationwide enhancement of safe schools.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Yotsanun Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, alongside Mr. Prasert Chantharawongthong, Minister of Education, addressed the media following the Committee on Educational Innovation Zone Policy No. 1/2026 meeting. Mr. Yotsanun announced the establishment of six subcommittees, each tasked with incorporating new directives into their operational guidelines for the next seven years and beyond, with some directives requiring immediate action.
Mr. Prasert elaborated on the role of schools in innovation zones, emphasizing their importance as models for broader application, particularly in line with the Ministry of Education's six policy areas. The first policy focuses on reducing teachers' workload by implementing systems like a central kitchen, allowing teachers to dedicate more time to classroom activities.
The second policy addresses inequality by developing a new per-student expenditure formula to ensure fairness across schools of different sizes. Additionally, it involves improving school transportation systems to connect students with quality schools efficiently.
The third policy aims to enhance real-world learning through a competency-based curriculum, adapting school programs to local needs without adding new subjects. The fourth policy promotes flexible education to eliminate dropouts by reintegrating students through adaptable learning systems and a credit bank.
Policy five focuses on legal and management mechanisms, studying law applications in innovation zones to facilitate agile administrative processes. The sixth and final policy underscores the importance of ensuring schools are safe environments, preventing disruptions in educational progress.
Mr. Prasert indicated that these six areas will serve as nationwide models. Essential components include developing an AI Framework for students and teachers, creating a Sand Box environment for pilot testing, and implementing comprehensive school safety measures across all schools as a priority.