Buriram: Deputy Prime Minister Thammanat Prompao and Minister of Education Prof. Dr. Narumon Pinyosinwat have taken significant steps towards addressing the critical issue of dilapidated teacher housing in Buriram Province. During their visit, they ordered expedited nationwide restoration efforts, emphasizing collaboration with the National Housing Authority to initiate repairs within the current year. They highlighted the importance of improving teachers’ living conditions as a foundation for enhancing educational quality.
According to Thai News Agency, the visit by Deputy Prime Minister Thammanat and Minister Narumon to Phattharabophit School in Samet Subdistrict, Mueang Buriram District, was prompted by complaints about the deteriorating state of teacher residences. Teachers have been enduring significant financial strain by having to fund repairs themselves due to the severe condition of their homes.
Lt. Col. Thammanat expressed concern upon discovering the widespread disrepair of teacher housing across the country. Issues such as termite infestations and structural damage have rendered many units unsafe. However, outdated government regulations have hindered necessary repairs. He stressed the urgent need to update these regulations to reflect current needs and conditions. The Deputy Prime Minister observed that the situation in Buriram was comparatively better than in other areas he visited, where teacher housing remains in a dire state despite being a fundamental requirement for educators.
The Deputy Prime Minister further emphasized that teacher housing is a pressing national issue. Teachers are central to the education system, and their well-being is crucial for effective student learning. He pointed out the significant debt burden faced by many teachers, which affects their ability to focus on teaching. Prof. Dr. Narumon is collaborating with relevant agencies to devise a systematic solution to alleviate this financial burden.
Prof. Dr. Narumon stated that the Ministry of Education has tasked the Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) with conducting a nationwide survey of teacher housing conditions to prioritize repair efforts. The Ministry plans to work with the National Housing Authority to secure funding for the project, with OBEC reimbursing the NHA. Budget allocation for the initiative will require approval from MPs and various parliamentary committees, with the aim of commencing repairs this year and compensating the NHA the following year.
“Improving teacher housing is a key policy of the Ministry of Education to enhance teachers’ quality of life nationwide. Providing secure, safe, and dignified housing is essential, as teachers play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s future,” concluded Prof. Dr. Narumon.