Bangkok: Srinakharinwirot University (SWU) has issued a second statement confirming the establishment of an investigative committee to look into the exam process, with a seven-day deadline for results. The announcement follows the issuance of a second statement by the university's Testing Service Office, which clarified the Terms of Reference (TOR) process and confirmed the delivery of exam flash drives had been completed. The statement also reiterated SWU's cooperation with the National Statistical Office (NSO) regarding appointments originally scheduled for July 1st, noting that the NSO has revoked the order delaying these appointments.
According to Thai News Agency, the topic of delaying the appointment of local government officials for those scheduled to report on July 1st has been addressed. Mr. Thanon Phanpiphas, Deputy Director-General acting on behalf of the Director-General of the Department of Local Administration, issued an urgent letter canceling the delay in the appointment of successful candidates. The letter, sent to all provincial governors, states that an investigation into alleged corruption is ongoing, but to ensure compliance with regulations and protect honest candidates, the delay has been canceled.
Furthermore, if evidence emerges of any appointee's involvement in bribery or examination fraud, they will face disqualification and be barred from future civil service or local government positions. Such individuals will also be subject to civil, criminal, disciplinary, and administrative consequences.
The Office of Educational and Psychological Testing at SWU provided further clarification on the Terms of Reference (TOR) with the Department of Local Administration. SWU was responsible for various tasks, including preparing and printing examination documents, designing questions, and grading answer sheets, all of which were completed as required. The original answer sheets are securely stored, with access limited and monitored, ensuring confidentiality throughout the process.
For transparency, the original answer sheets and related documents have been submitted to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for verification. The university has also outlined its commitment to a fair investigation by appointing a fact-finding committee with a seven-day deadline, starting from June 23. The Director of the Office of Educational and Psychological Testing, along with relevant personnel, will contribute to the investigation by gathering necessary information and evidence for submission to the NACC.
Srinakharinwirot University has expressed its readiness to cooperate with all relevant agencies and assured that appropriate actions will be taken based on the investigation's findings.