1. Accelerate Quality Development of Education and Learners
1.1 Reform the curriculum at all levels of education
Curriculum content should be reviewed, especially in core subject areas that provide young students with basic knowledge and continuous learning that allow them to keep up with a world of change. Emphasis should be placed on basic mathematics that prepares future scientists and mathematicians. English language and Thai language are priority subjects because young Thais have problems in using English for communication, in reading, in critical thinking, and in summary writing. Desirable values and ethics as well as knowledge on health and nutrition will be promoted as appropriate to children’s ages and stages of development.
1.2 Develop human resources in response to domestic and international demands
Human resources development shall focus on areas or disciplines where there is shortage of qualified graduates or are in line with development needs of the country. Special attention should be given to a strong base in science and mathematics. Teachers must guide young students towards furthering their studies in fields that are in demand, i.e. medicine, science, engineering and nursing. Improved English language skills will help prepare students for the ASEAN Community, enhance their mobility and open up employment opportunities for Thai people abroad. In this connection, the Prime Minister has urged the Ministry of Education to step up the production of vocational graduates in computer and automotive engineering to respond to the rising demand of the automotive industry.
1.3 Instil ethical, moral and democratic values in students.
Students should be encouraged to follow the path of Dhamma on a continuous basis. From an early age, such values as discipline, division of labour and team work, volunteerism, mutual support, sacrifice for the common good and gender equality should be cultivated in students. Projects that promote religious practices, including the Buddhist schools, morality teaching by monks, school directors for Dhamma practice should be continued and fully supported. Civic and moral education should be reinstated in the curriculum.
1.4 Develop teachers, faculty staff and educational personnel
The quality of teachers, faculty staff and educational personnel should be developed. Emphasis should be given to addressing teacher shortages in specific fields, out-of-field teaching and training new teachers. Indigenous knowledge/local wisdom teachers and qualified personnel from other sectors should be encouraged to teach. Graduates in required fields, both Thai and foreign who do not have teaching licenses should be able to assist in teaching such subjects as languages,