Bangkok: The Ministry of Education is hosting the 70th Teachers' Day celebration at the Teachers' Council Auditorium under the theme "The Queen Mother and Teacher of the Nation." This event honors Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, and highlights the crucial role of teachers in Thai education, emphasizing the need for educators to live dignified and stable lives.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister Thammanat Phromphao, along with Professor Dr. Narumon Pinyosinwat, the Minister of Education, and Mr. Ongart Wongprayoon, Deputy Minister of Education, attended the ceremony. High-ranking officials, political appointees, and representatives of teachers and educational personnel from across Thailand were also present. Organized by the Secretariat of the Teachers' Council of Thailand, this year's celebration took place simultaneously in central and regional areas across the country to honor educational professionals and those who have significantly contributed to the field of education.
The day began with a merit-making ceremony involving the offering of alms to 93 monks, along with ceremonies to dedicate merit to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, honor deceased teachers, and bring good fortune to educators. These activities set the stage for the formal ceremonies.
Professor Dr. Narumon reported that the first Teachers' Day was held on January 16, 1957, making this the 70th anniversary. The celebration aims to honor Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, commemorate past teachers' contributions, foster unity between teachers and the public, and recognize educators who have made valuable contributions to national education.
Since taking office, Professor Dr. Narumon has implemented policies prioritizing teachers as central to improving education quality. These policies focus on professional advancement, flexible qualification criteria, improved welfare, teacher housing projects, and addressing teachers' debt through consolidation and restructuring to reduce interest burdens.
Deputy Prime Minister Thammanat, in his opening remarks, emphasized the importance of Teachers' Day in recognizing teachers' value as second parents. He paid tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit for her dedication to improving people's quality of life. He also reflected on personal experiences with teachers and acknowledged the challenges they face, including housing and debt burdens. The government, he noted, prioritizes improving teachers' quality of life, allowing them to educate with dignity. He encouraged teachers to remain steadfast and committed to policies enhancing their welfare.
The Deputy Prime Minister also presided over an award ceremony, presenting certificates of merit to 232 education professionals across 11 categories. These awards, including the Teachers Council Award, outstanding teacher awards, and the "One School, One Innovation" award, underscore the importance of teachers in sustainable educational development and the nation's future.