Education Ministry Redirects 1.6 Billion Baht Digital Skills Project
Thailand's Education Ministry is redirecting 1.6 billion baht from a digital skills program to other projects, while maintaining equipment procurement commitments through 2573 as part of broader education reforms.
Education Minister Prasert Chantharavong announced on August 19 following a meeting with senior education officials that he has directed the Basic Education Commission to expedite budget disbursement for the fiscal year 2569 in line with approved plans and objectives, emphasizing efficient spending that delivers concrete educational development benefits.
Chantharavong stated he has also instructed the Basic Education Commission to hold approximately 1.6 billion baht earmarked for the Digital Skill/Credit Portfolio initiative—a program promoting equitable education through digital systems for skills development and portfolio credits. The funds will be presented to the Cabinet for reallocation to other suitable projects, provided the details align with guidelines from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, and that data systems are integrated between the two agencies for long-term interoperability without duplication of other programs such as the National Digital Learning Platform.
He noted that procurement of supplementary teaching equipment constitutes a five-year commitment from fiscal years 2569 through 2573 and will be piloted in Education Sandbox schools, so that component will continue without review. Chantharavong added that most policies and projects launched in 2569 are still in the design phase and will show tangible results in 2570, including the draft National Education Act expected to take effect mid-2570, as well as digital transformation and personnel restructuring initiatives.
