Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister Yotsanu Wongsawat, who also serves as the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, led a significant meeting aimed at bolstering safety measures within Thai educational institutions. The meeting, held under his chairmanship, sought to establish both short-term and long-term strategies to ensure the safety of children in schools across the nation. The discussion included prominent figures such as Minister of Education Prasert Chantrungthong, Minister of Labour Julaphan Amornvivat, and Minister of Social Development and Human Security Nikorn Somklang, as well as high-ranking officials from relevant ministries.
According to Thai News Agency, the primary focus of the meeting was to develop a comprehensive strategy for school safety in Thailand. Mr. Yotsanan emphasized the importance of clear communication with both Thai and foreign parents to affirm the country's commitment to maintaining high safety standards in schools. The meeting also highlighted the necessity of learning from past incidents, with various ministries proposing concrete plans to enhance safety. These include reopening schools with enhanced safety protocols and crafting a national school safety standard.
Mr. Yotsanan underscored the importance of a united approach, stating that the meeting addressed not only school safety but also broader safety concerns. A significant outcome of the meeting was the development of a national school safety plan, which will be presented to the Cabinet for approval. This plan includes a mental health support system for those affected by school incidents, facilitated by the Department of Mental Health through hotlines and local psychologists.
Further, the Ministry of Education has initiated the deployment of mental health volunteer teams to support students, teachers, and parents. In line with international standards, systematic activities were organized on the first day of school to cater to different care needs. Measures such as closing affected classrooms and providing observation areas for parents have been put in place to reassure stakeholders.
The meeting also proposed the implementation of national school safety standards within 90 days, encompassing mental health and safety screenings. The Department of Mental Health and the Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) will ensure regular screenings and effective referrals for at-risk students. Training for guidance counselors and advisors was also discussed to enhance mental health support in schools.
Additionally, the Ministry of Education plans to launch a Rights Protection Center, offering a safe platform for reporting grievances. This initiative, expected to be operational within two months, will provide a secure environment for discussing issues otherwise left unaddressed.
Emergency response drills were emphasized, with OBEC underscoring the need for comprehensive safety checks, including monitoring CCTV systems. These measures aim to reassure parents and students that Thai schools are a safe environment for education.