Over 360,000 Children Return to Classrooms under Thailand’s Zero Dropout Policy

Bangkok, The Gulf Observer: More than 360,000 children have returned to classrooms as the Education Ministry intensifies efforts to reintegrate school dropouts under the government’s “Thailand Zero Dropout” policy for the coming year.

A recent survey by the Ministry revealed that 1,025,514 children aged 3-18 dropped out of school in 2024. Among them, 767,304 were Thai nationals, while the rest were children of foreign nationals residing in Thailand.

Of the Thai dropouts, 365,231 children, or 47.6%, have resumed their education. Meanwhile, 31,816 foreign children, accounting for 12.32%, have also rejoined the education system.

Education Minister Permpoon Chidchob emphasized that addressing the dropout issue is a cornerstone of efforts to promote educational equality under the Thai Zero Dropout campaign. “We will ensure all Thai children receive compulsory education,” said Pol Gen Permpoon.

The Ministry has introduced various programs, including formal, non-formal, and informal education, tailored to meet the unique needs and potential of each child.

Niyom Phaisopha, director of the basic education policy and planning bureau under the Office of the Basic Education Commission (Obec), stated that schools managed by the Education Ministry, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and private institutions are part of the effort.

For those unable to return to traditional schools, Obec will provide education at home through flexible and customized curricula. “Flexible curricula will be designed to suit their needs,” Niyom said.