2. Increase Access to Education
2.1 Provide educational opportunities to the poor, the underprivileged and the disabled
Access to educational opportunities should be expanded to the poor, the underprivileged and the disabled. In accordance with its original objectives, the One District, One Scholarship (ODOS) project should target poor students, providing opportunities for them to study abroad.
2.2 Develop lifelong learning opportunities
Non-formal and informal education should be promoted to expand lifelong learning opportunities. Community learning centres should provide vocational training to both working-age and aging population. Such training should aim to upgrade their skills, enhance their career choices and reinstate the aging population into the workforce. Learning centres should be established abroad to teach Thai language to foreigners and support Thais living overseas. In readiness for the establishment of a single ASEAN Community in 2015, languages used in the neighbouring countries should be promoted as this will enhance communication and mutual understanding. Special support should be given to the Royal Initiated Projects, His Majesty the King’s new theory of agriculture, and activities of SUPPORT of Her Majesty the Queen that promote Thai arts and crafts. Products from the One Tambon One Product (OTOP) project should be further developed to meet international standards and boost exports.