Beijing: Minister Narumon discussed with two major international Chinese language organizations to strengthen Thai-Chinese cooperation and expand the Confucius Classroom, Lupan Workshop, and HSK Test Center to meet the surging demand for Chinese.
According to Thai News Agency, on November 16, 2015, Prof. Dr. Narumon Pinyosinwat, Minister of Education, along with Ministry of Education executives, met with Mr. Zhao Lingshan, Secretary-General of the International Chinese Language Education Foundation, and Mr. Zhong Yinghua, President of the International Chinese Language Association, in Beijing, People’s Republic of China. The purpose of the meeting was to enhance comprehensive cooperation in Chinese language teaching between Thailand and China across various educational levels, including Thai schools, vocational schools, and private institutions.
During the discussion, Prof. Dr. Narumon highlighted the Ministry of Education’s key policy, which focuses on upgrading Chinese language skills at all levels of education. This policy is driven by the global economic outlook and the expansion of China-related industries, which have led to a rapidly increasing demand for Chinese language proficiency. The Minister of Education underscored that learning Chinese not only involves language skills but also opens doors to opportunities in trade, tourism, investment, and the joint development of modern technology between the two countries.
Prof. Dr. Narumon stated that discussions with the Chinese side have explored expanding cooperation in various areas, particularly the establishment of a HSK Chinese language proficiency test and teaching center in Thailand. This initiative aims to support the growing number of students who need to take the Chinese language test for further studies, employment, and scholarships in China. Additionally, the establishment of a new Luban Workshop at Rayong Technical College as a training center for modern industrial technology and innovation was discussed. Furthermore, the country’s first 1+X training center at Ban Khai Technical College will be developed to align vocational curricula with standards certified by both Thailand and China.
Prof. Dr. Narumon further noted that the Chinese organizations have expressed full readiness to support cooperation with Thailand. She emphasized that Thailand is a top priority for China in promoting Chinese language teaching and learning, and is seen as having the potential to become a center for Chinese language education in ASEAN. The Association’s role in developing international Chinese language teacher standards, curriculum design, and academic competitions will support Thailand in areas such as personnel, teaching technology, and language research.
The discussion reflects the close relationship between Thailand and China in education and establishes a foundation for future opportunities for Thai students, teachers, and educational institutions. Both parties agreed to continue cooperation to support the new economy, which requires language skills, technology, and cultural understanding. This marks an important step in elevating Thai education to international standards and strengthening the friendship between Thailand and China.