Bangkok: The Prime Minister praised "Nong Pace" for winning the world coding championship, reiterating the government's readiness to create opportunities for Thai children and believing in the potential of Thai youth.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that prior to attending the World AI Conference in Shanghai, China, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul learned of the success of "Nong Pace," or Pawin Pattanavekin, a 9-year-old third-grade student from Phuket. She won two world championships at the International STEM Olympiad and Coding Olympiad 2026 in Rome, Italy, defeating over 38,000 competitors from 153 countries and more than 1,700 schools worldwide.
The Prime Minister expressed his congratulations and admiration for Pace's talent, perseverance, and determination. He also extended his congratulations to her family, teachers, and all those who supported her, who played a crucial role in enabling Thai youth to showcase their potential on the international stage.
The Prime Minister stated that Pace's success proves that "Thai children have potential equal to that of any other nation in the world" if given the right opportunities and support. He also encouraged all Thai children and youth to believe in themselves, dare to think, dare to create, and never stop learning, as the modern world offers opportunities where ability and effort can lead to success, regardless of one's background. This aligns with his participation in the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference to seek collaboration in science and new opportunities for Thailand.
Ms. Rachada added that the government prioritizes developing the potential of youth in STEM, including AI, to prepare manpower for the future economy. The government plans to integrate the work of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, and the Ministry of Education to expand opportunities for technology learning so that Thai children and youth have widespread access.
Despite being only 9 years old, Pace won two world championship titles in this competition, competing against participants ranging from third grade to high school level. She has also previously won medals in coding, mathematics, and science competitions at various international levels, including three gold medals from a competition in New York last year. This reflects the potential of Thai youth to achieve excellence at the global level when given the right support and opportunities.