Songkhla: Deputy Prime Minister Thammanat inspected the “Fix It Center” in Songkhla, highlighting the role of the vocational school in repairing cars and appliances for citizens. He announced a policy shift from using disaster victims’ documents to relying on community leaders for certification, facilitating immediate relief.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Lt. Col. Thammanat Prompao, who also serves as the Director of the Center for Water Management in Natural Disaster Situations, visited the Fix It Center. Managed by the Office of the Vocational Education Commission under the Ministry of Education, the center provides essential repair services for electrical appliances, occupational equipment, machinery, and motorcycles to people affected by flooding in Songkhla Province.
In Songkhla Province, over 50 Fix It Centers have been set up to help reduce public burden. Teachers and vocational students from institutions such as Lang Suan Vocational College, Chumphon Technical College, and Tha Sae Vocational College, among others, have been dispatched to carry out repairs, showcasing a collaborative effort within the vocational education network.
Lt. Col. Thammanat emphasized the societal value of students gaining firsthand experience during disasters. Many centers have already restored numerous motorcycles and electrical appliances like refrigerators and fans for the public. Notably, the center repaired over 250 motorcycles in just three days, returning nearly all electrical appliances to their owners.
“The Minister of Education is actively involved, and our teams work tirelessly from morning until night, holding nightly meetings to improve problem-solving strategies. I extend my gratitude to the Ministry of Education, faculty, and vocational students for their efforts in alleviating public hardship during these challenging times. Additionally, I have coordinated with the Royal Irrigation Department to supply more spark plugs, air filters, and engine oil to various Fix It centers,” stated Lt. Col. Thammanat.
On the topic of document verification for disaster victims, Lt. Col. Thammanat disclosed coordination with Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to eliminate the need for identification documents in severely affected areas like Hat Yai District. Community leaders can now immediately certify victims, ensuring rapid access to compensation rights. An order has been issued by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior.