Education authorities have ordered a disciplinary investigation into a school principal in Kanchanaburi who is accused of sexually abusing 11 schoolgirls.
Deputy Education Minister Akaranun Khankittinan on Thursday visited the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women in Bangkok to hear complaints from the parents and 11 students, ranging from Pathom Suksa 5 to Mathayom Suksa 3 (Grades 5-9) at the school.
The students have alleged that the school director sexually harassed them by touching their breasts over a period of more than two years at the teachers’ residence located in the compound of the school.
Pavena Hongsakula, president of the foundation, and representatives from the Office of the Basic Education Commission (Obec) joined the meeting to discuss assistance and expedite legal proceedings.
Mr Akaranun described the allegations as grave and unacceptable, saying he had instructed Obec and the local education office to set up a committee to conduct a disciplinary investigation.
Although the school director submitted his resignation on July 3 and was due to retire in two months, the disciplinary process would continue, said Mr Akaranun.
If found guilty, he will face dismissal from the civil service, resulting in the loss of all pension and retirement benefits.
The deputy minister also ordered disciplinary investigations against any teachers who were aware of the abuse but failed to act, saying they would be held accountable for neglecting their duties without exception.
To help the victims recover from the long-term trauma, authorities are arranging for psychologists and specialists for ongoing mental health care.
The parents also want to pursue criminal action to the fullest extent of the law, according to the Pavena Foundation.
Mr Akaranun said the ministry would provide legal assistance and other necessary support to the victims’ families in any subsequent criminal proceedings.
As the alleged offences involved many victims and separate incidents, each charge would be prosecuted individually under criminal law.
“I am confident the school director will face imprisonment,” he said.
