The school curriculum in Thailand will be revised to focus more on the Thai language, civic education and Thai history, with increased mother-tongue support for Thai students in international schools as well.
“This curriculum change is not intended to reduce content but to increase depth and meaning … so that students will understand their roots and can step forward with confidence,” said Yodchanan Wongsawat, minister of higher education, science, research and innovation.
He made the comments on Tuesday at a briefing where he and Education Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong discussed preparations to amend the Education Act.
According to Mr Yodchanan, the focus of history teaching will shift from rote learning to historical analysis so that students will understand the development of the nation and the roles of the royal institution, which is a part of national history, like Thai people.
Civic education will emphasise critical thinking, teamwork, leadership and volunteering.
“Citizens who understand the roots of the nation can more effectively help to develop it,” Mr Yodchanan said.
Thai-language subjects, meanwhile, are the basis for learning, said Mr Prasert.
“The ministries have discussed the matter with the International Schools Association of Thailand, so that Thai students at international schools can use the Thai language while their international school curricula would remain intact,” he said.
Instruction in Thai language and culture is already mandatory in international schools regulated by the Ministry of Education. However, the focus on English proficiency for university and career opportunities often means Thai students do not develop proficiency in their native tongue.
Education authorities have already communicated the planned changes with all schools under their supervision, the education minister said.
A meeting to discuss amendments to the Education Act is scheduled for Thursday, he added.
