Legislation Concerning the Provision for Special Needs Education
Until 1975 children with disabilities tended not to be provided for within the state system of schooling. However, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act 1975 granted all children with disabilities a free, appropriate public education. These children were provided for in special schools separated from mainstream schools. However, Thailand is moving towards integration of children with special needs into mainstream schools. The 1992 Disability Act has further highlighted the need to continue to expand the provision for people with disabilities.The 1999 National Education Act has attempted to give more attention to special needs education. Various ministerial departments are responsible for the provision of particular areas of special needs education. The Division of Special Education is within the Ministry of Education, while the Department of General Education focuses on the deaf, the blind, and integrated education. The Department of Non-formal education emphasises the needs of people living in remote areas.
Special Schools